• POLICY POSITION PAPER

    On Institutional Religious Alignment, Soft Systemic Theocracy, and Nigeria’s Democratic Pluralism

    Issued by:
    Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN)

    Title

    Safeguarding Nigeria’s Constitutional Pluralism: A Policy Analysis of Soft Religious Statecraft, Institutional Alignment, and Emerging Civilizational Governance Patterns

    Executive Summary

    The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) affirms Nigeria’s sovereign right to pursue diplomatic, economic, and security partnerships with nations across the world. We recognize the importance of international cooperation in trade, counterterrorism, education, and development.

    However, CSMN raises a formal constitutional, ethical, and policy concern regarding the gradual institutional integration of religiously-derived frameworks into Nigeria’s state systems, foreign policy alignments, and regulatory architecture.

    Recent developments — including Nigeria’s deepening strategic partnership with the Republic of Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the signing of multiple bilateral agreements with religious and civilizational implications, and the announcement by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) regarding the planned integration of global Islamic finance standards into the Nigerian Financial Reporting Framework (NFRF) — reflect a broader pattern of soft systemic religious statecraft.

    This pattern does not operate through violence, legislation, or constitutional amendment, but through policy normalization, regulatory harmonization, and institutional embedding.

    CSMN asserts that such developments pose a risk to:
    • Nigeria’s constitutional religious neutrality
    • Democratic pluralism
    • Civic inclusion
    • Equal citizenship
    • Institutional balance
    • National cohesion

    This paper articulates a principled Christian, constitutional, and civic response — not rooted in hostility, but in justice, pluralism, and national unity.

    1. Contextual Background

    Nigeria is a constitutionally plural republic composed of diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural communities. Its stability depends not on religious dominance but on equitable inclusion and neutral governance.

    The nation already faces Christian persecution and genocide:
    • Sectarian insecurity
    • Religious extremism
    • Communal distrust
    • Identity-based conflicts
    • Weak interfaith confidence

    In such a fragile environment, state symbolism, policy direction, and institutional alignment carry national significance beyond administrative intent.

    2. Turkey Partnership and Civilizational Statecraft

    Turkey under President Erdoğan represents a religiously reintegrated state model, where religion is no longer confined to private life but integrated into:
    • Governance identity
    • Education systems
    • Foreign policy
    • Media diplomacy
    • Economic frameworks
    • Cultural diplomacy

    Nigeria’s strategic alignment with Turkey includes agreements in:
    • Defence cooperation
    • Trade and economic frameworks
    • Halal quality assurance
    • Education and higher education
    • Media and communication
    • Diaspora policy
    • Diplomatic training institutions

    These partnerships, while diplomatically legitimate, reflect civilizational statecraft, not neutral globalization.

    3. Financial Systems as Governance Infrastructure

    The announcement by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) that global Islamic finance standards are to be integrated into the Nigerian Financial Reporting Framework (NFRF) represents a significant structural development.

    Financial and regulatory systems are not neutral technologies; they are value-encoding infrastructures that shape:
    • Ethical norms
    • Institutional behavior
    • Economic identity
    • National regulatory culture
    • Governance philosophy

    When religiously-derived financial models are embedded in national regulatory frameworks, religion shifts from private belief to public governance architecture.

    This constitutes institutional religious integration, not religious freedom.

    4. Pattern Recognition: Systemic, Not Isolated Events

    When viewed holistically, the following developments form a coherent pattern:
    • Religious trade standards (Halal frameworks)
    • Defence cooperation with religiously ideological states
    • Educational and cultural cooperation frameworks
    • Media and communication partnerships
    • Diaspora governance cooperation
    • Turkey diplomatic alignment
    • Financial system integration of Islamic standards
    • Regulatory harmonization with religious governance models

    This reflects systemic institutional alignment, not random policy choices.

    This is not violent but “Taqiyyah”
    Not militant but Political Islam
    Not coercive but Islamism
    Not declarative but state capture.
    It is bureaucratic, gradual, normalized, and structural.

    This is the nature of soft systemic religious statecraft.

    5. Christian Social Ethics and State Power

    Christian social theology affirms:
    • The dignity of all persons
    • The neutrality of the state
    • Justice as the foundation of governance
    • Protection of minorities
    • Pluralism as social stability
    • Power as stewardship, not domination

    Scripture recognizes that injustice often operates through systems and structures, not merely individuals (Ephesians 6:12).

    Therefore, Christian ethics demand discernment in policy direction, not silence.

    6. Constitutional Implications

    Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees:
    • Freedom of religion
    • Equal citizenship
    • Religious neutrality of the state
    • Non-establishment of state religion
    • Plural civic identity

    Institutional religious integration — even without formal declaration — risks:
    • Policy asymmetry
    • Religious exclusion
    • Structural inequality
    • Civic alienation
    • Erosion of trust
    • National fragmentation

    7. CSMN Policy Position

    The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) formally affirms:
    1. Diplomacy is legitimate, but civilizational alignment must be balanced.
    2. Trade is necessary, but religious asymmetry must be avoided.
    3. Security cooperation is valid, but ideological outsourcing is unacceptable.
    4. Religious freedom is sacred, but institutional religious governance is not constitutional.
    5. Pluralism is non-negotiable in Nigeria’s national identity.

    8. Policy Recommendations

    A. Constitutional Safeguards

    Reaffirm religious neutrality in all foreign policy, trade, and regulatory frameworks.

    B. Religious Impact Assessments

    Mandatory interfaith and religious neutrality audits for all international agreements.

    C. Balanced Diplomatic Architecture

    Strategic partnerships must reflect Nigeria’s plural identity, not civilizational alignment.

    D. Regulatory Neutrality

    National frameworks must remain religiously neutral and inclusive.

    E. Interfaith Governance Structures

    Establish permanent interfaith policy councils within key ministries.

    F. Civic Oversight Mechanisms

    Independent civil society monitoring of policy-religion intersections.

    9. Clarification of Position

    CSMN rejects:
    • Christian persecution
    • Illegitimate extension of the Islamic tradition into Government policy
    • Communal hostility
    • Islamization
    • Existential Threat to Indigenous People
    • Political violence

    This position is not against Muslims as citizens of this country.
    It is not against religious freedom, but it is a constitutional and policy critique of state direction and institutional alignment.

    Conclusion

    Nigeria must not evolve into a soft theocratic state through regulatory normalization.
    It must not substitute pluralism with partnership with known sponsors of terrorism.
    It must not trade neutrality for alignment with an enemy of a united Nigeria
    It must not exchange citizenship for civilizational identity.

    True national stability is built on:
    • Neutral institutions
    • Balanced diplomacy
    • Inclusive governance
    • Constitutional fidelity
    • Religious equality
    • Civic trust

    Nigeria’s strength is not in religious dominance, but in plural unity.

    Proposed by:
    Kingsley Shola Ayinde
    POLICY POSITION PAPER On Institutional Religious Alignment, Soft Systemic Theocracy, and Nigeria’s Democratic Pluralism Issued by: Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) Title Safeguarding Nigeria’s Constitutional Pluralism: A Policy Analysis of Soft Religious Statecraft, Institutional Alignment, and Emerging Civilizational Governance Patterns Executive Summary The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) affirms Nigeria’s sovereign right to pursue diplomatic, economic, and security partnerships with nations across the world. We recognize the importance of international cooperation in trade, counterterrorism, education, and development. However, CSMN raises a formal constitutional, ethical, and policy concern regarding the gradual institutional integration of religiously-derived frameworks into Nigeria’s state systems, foreign policy alignments, and regulatory architecture. Recent developments — including Nigeria’s deepening strategic partnership with the Republic of Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the signing of multiple bilateral agreements with religious and civilizational implications, and the announcement by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) regarding the planned integration of global Islamic finance standards into the Nigerian Financial Reporting Framework (NFRF) — reflect a broader pattern of soft systemic religious statecraft. This pattern does not operate through violence, legislation, or constitutional amendment, but through policy normalization, regulatory harmonization, and institutional embedding. CSMN asserts that such developments pose a risk to: • Nigeria’s constitutional religious neutrality • Democratic pluralism • Civic inclusion • Equal citizenship • Institutional balance • National cohesion This paper articulates a principled Christian, constitutional, and civic response — not rooted in hostility, but in justice, pluralism, and national unity. 1. Contextual Background Nigeria is a constitutionally plural republic composed of diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural communities. Its stability depends not on religious dominance but on equitable inclusion and neutral governance. The nation already faces Christian persecution and genocide: • Sectarian insecurity • Religious extremism • Communal distrust • Identity-based conflicts • Weak interfaith confidence In such a fragile environment, state symbolism, policy direction, and institutional alignment carry national significance beyond administrative intent. 2. Turkey Partnership and Civilizational Statecraft Turkey under President Erdoğan represents a religiously reintegrated state model, where religion is no longer confined to private life but integrated into: • Governance identity • Education systems • Foreign policy • Media diplomacy • Economic frameworks • Cultural diplomacy Nigeria’s strategic alignment with Turkey includes agreements in: • Defence cooperation • Trade and economic frameworks • Halal quality assurance • Education and higher education • Media and communication • Diaspora policy • Diplomatic training institutions These partnerships, while diplomatically legitimate, reflect civilizational statecraft, not neutral globalization. 3. Financial Systems as Governance Infrastructure The announcement by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) that global Islamic finance standards are to be integrated into the Nigerian Financial Reporting Framework (NFRF) represents a significant structural development. Financial and regulatory systems are not neutral technologies; they are value-encoding infrastructures that shape: • Ethical norms • Institutional behavior • Economic identity • National regulatory culture • Governance philosophy When religiously-derived financial models are embedded in national regulatory frameworks, religion shifts from private belief to public governance architecture. This constitutes institutional religious integration, not religious freedom. 4. Pattern Recognition: Systemic, Not Isolated Events When viewed holistically, the following developments form a coherent pattern: • Religious trade standards (Halal frameworks) • Defence cooperation with religiously ideological states • Educational and cultural cooperation frameworks • Media and communication partnerships • Diaspora governance cooperation • Turkey diplomatic alignment • Financial system integration of Islamic standards • Regulatory harmonization with religious governance models This reflects systemic institutional alignment, not random policy choices. This is not violent but “Taqiyyah” Not militant but Political Islam Not coercive but Islamism Not declarative but state capture. It is bureaucratic, gradual, normalized, and structural. This is the nature of soft systemic religious statecraft. 5. Christian Social Ethics and State Power Christian social theology affirms: • The dignity of all persons • The neutrality of the state • Justice as the foundation of governance • Protection of minorities • Pluralism as social stability • Power as stewardship, not domination Scripture recognizes that injustice often operates through systems and structures, not merely individuals (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, Christian ethics demand discernment in policy direction, not silence. 6. Constitutional Implications Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees: • Freedom of religion • Equal citizenship • Religious neutrality of the state • Non-establishment of state religion • Plural civic identity Institutional religious integration — even without formal declaration — risks: • Policy asymmetry • Religious exclusion • Structural inequality • Civic alienation • Erosion of trust • National fragmentation 7. CSMN Policy Position The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) formally affirms: 1. Diplomacy is legitimate, but civilizational alignment must be balanced. 2. Trade is necessary, but religious asymmetry must be avoided. 3. Security cooperation is valid, but ideological outsourcing is unacceptable. 4. Religious freedom is sacred, but institutional religious governance is not constitutional. 5. Pluralism is non-negotiable in Nigeria’s national identity. 8. Policy Recommendations A. Constitutional Safeguards Reaffirm religious neutrality in all foreign policy, trade, and regulatory frameworks. B. Religious Impact Assessments Mandatory interfaith and religious neutrality audits for all international agreements. C. Balanced Diplomatic Architecture Strategic partnerships must reflect Nigeria’s plural identity, not civilizational alignment. D. Regulatory Neutrality National frameworks must remain religiously neutral and inclusive. E. Interfaith Governance Structures Establish permanent interfaith policy councils within key ministries. F. Civic Oversight Mechanisms Independent civil society monitoring of policy-religion intersections. 9. Clarification of Position CSMN rejects: • Christian persecution • Illegitimate extension of the Islamic tradition into Government policy • Communal hostility • Islamization • Existential Threat to Indigenous People • Political violence This position is not against Muslims as citizens of this country. It is not against religious freedom, but it is a constitutional and policy critique of state direction and institutional alignment. Conclusion Nigeria must not evolve into a soft theocratic state through regulatory normalization. It must not substitute pluralism with partnership with known sponsors of terrorism. It must not trade neutrality for alignment with an enemy of a united Nigeria It must not exchange citizenship for civilizational identity. True national stability is built on: • Neutral institutions • Balanced diplomacy • Inclusive governance • Constitutional fidelity • Religious equality • Civic trust Nigeria’s strength is not in religious dominance, but in plural unity. Proposed by: Kingsley Shola Ayinde
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  • PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS OVER NIGERIA – WITH ILLUSTRATIONS & SCRIPTURES
    By Kingsley Shola Ayinde

    1. Nigeria’s Redemption Is at Hand – The Set Time Has Come

    Declaration:
    Nigeria’s redemption is around the corner. By God’s grace and mercy, it shall not exceed this season. 2026 is the watershed year for the fulfilment of divine prophecies concerning our nation.

    Biblical Illustration – Israel in Egypt:
    For 430 years, Israel groaned under bondage. But when the fullness of time arrived, God intervened suddenly and decisively.

    “Now it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years, on that very same day, it came to pass that all the armies of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt.”
    — Exodus 12:41

    Nigeria has endured seasons of travail, but heaven declares: the clock of delay has expired.

    “For the vision is yet for an appointed time… though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
    — Habakkuk 2:3

    2. 2026 – The Acceptable Year of the LORD

    Declaration:
    2026 is the Acceptable Year of the LORD, the SET TIME, the FULLNESS OF TIME to birth a new Nigeria.

    Biblical Illustration – The Ministry of Jesus:
    Jesus appeared after centuries of prophetic silence and boldly declared:

    “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand.”
    — Mark 1:15

    What looked like delay was actually divine preparation.

    “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son…”
    — Galatians 4:4

    So also for Nigeria: what God is birthing requires maturity, alignment, and readiness.

    “You shall arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favor her, yes, the set time, has come.”
    — Psalm 102:13

    3. From Kairos to Fulness – A National Shift

    Declaration:
    We have been living in Kairos moments—divine windows of opportunity. Now, the fullness of time has come for national transformation.

    Biblical Illustration – Esther’s Moment:
    Esther did not appear randomly; she arose at a critical juncture.

    “Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
    — Esther 4:14

    Nigeria is not an accident of history. She is a nation with a prophetic destiny.

    “He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings.”
    — Daniel 2:21

    4. The Noise Will Cease – God’s Sudden Intervention

    Declaration:
    All ungodly agendas, oppression, and systems contrary to God’s purpose shall cease suddenly—and will never rise again.

    Biblical Illustration – The Red Sea Judgment:
    Israel heard the threats of Pharaoh, but God silenced them in one night.

    “The Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever.”
    — Exodus 14:13

    God’s deliverance is not gradual when the appointed hour strikes.

    “For the LORD will execute His sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.”
    — Romans 9:28

    5. Heaven’s Glory Will Invade the Seven Mountains

    Declaration:
    Heaven’s glory will invade government, education, media, economy, family, religion, and culture in Nigeria.

    Biblical Illustration – Solomon’s Temple:
    When God’s glory descended, human effort ceased.

    “And the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.”
    — 2 Chronicles 5:14

    “The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.”
    — Habakkuk 2:14

    Nigeria shall not be known for chaos but for God’s manifest presence.

    6. Reign of Righteousness – The Second Phase of the Prophecy

    Declaration:
    The reign of righteousness is at hand. Leadership shall be purified, and governance shall align with divine justice.

    Biblical Illustration – David’s Throne:
    God’s promise was not merely a king, but a righteous ruler.

    “He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.”
    — 2 Samuel 23:3

    “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”
    — Proverbs 14:34

    7. A New Constitution – A Rebuilt Nation

    Declaration:
    A new system shall emerge—crafted by god-fearing patriots, honest statesmen, and lovers of truth.

    Biblical Illustration – Nehemiah Rebuilding Jerusalem:
    The walls were rebuilt not by angels, but by aligned citizens with a burden for their nation.

    “And the people had a mind to work.”
    — Nehemiah 4:6

    “I will restore your judges as at the first, and your counselors as at the beginning.”
    — Isaiah 1:26

    8. Global Awe – God Will Be Glorified

    Declaration:
    The nations of the world shall stand in awe at what God will do in Nigeria.

    “The nations shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth Your glory.”
    — Psalm 102:15

    “This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.”
    — Psalm 118:23

    CLOSING PROPHETIC PRAYER

    Lord, we decree that Nigeria shall live and not die, She shall not be divided nor disintegrate.
    We declare that 2026 is the SET TIME, the Acceptable Year of the LORD, the birth hour of a new nation.
    Let righteousness reign, truth prevail, and Your glory cover this land.
    May history record that God intervened in Nigeria, and our nation was reborn—
    In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
    #ksa-2026
    PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS OVER NIGERIA – WITH ILLUSTRATIONS & SCRIPTURES By Kingsley Shola Ayinde 1. Nigeria’s Redemption Is at Hand – The Set Time Has Come Declaration: Nigeria’s redemption is around the corner. By God’s grace and mercy, it shall not exceed this season. 2026 is the watershed year for the fulfilment of divine prophecies concerning our nation. Biblical Illustration – Israel in Egypt: For 430 years, Israel groaned under bondage. But when the fullness of time arrived, God intervened suddenly and decisively. “Now it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years, on that very same day, it came to pass that all the armies of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt.” — Exodus 12:41 Nigeria has endured seasons of travail, but heaven declares: the clock of delay has expired. “For the vision is yet for an appointed time… though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” — Habakkuk 2:3 2. 2026 – The Acceptable Year of the LORD Declaration: 2026 is the Acceptable Year of the LORD, the SET TIME, the FULLNESS OF TIME to birth a new Nigeria. Biblical Illustration – The Ministry of Jesus: Jesus appeared after centuries of prophetic silence and boldly declared: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand.” — Mark 1:15 What looked like delay was actually divine preparation. “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son…” — Galatians 4:4 So also for Nigeria: what God is birthing requires maturity, alignment, and readiness. “You shall arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favor her, yes, the set time, has come.” — Psalm 102:13 3. From Kairos to Fulness – A National Shift Declaration: We have been living in Kairos moments—divine windows of opportunity. Now, the fullness of time has come for national transformation. Biblical Illustration – Esther’s Moment: Esther did not appear randomly; she arose at a critical juncture. “Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” — Esther 4:14 Nigeria is not an accident of history. She is a nation with a prophetic destiny. “He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings.” — Daniel 2:21 4. The Noise Will Cease – God’s Sudden Intervention Declaration: All ungodly agendas, oppression, and systems contrary to God’s purpose shall cease suddenly—and will never rise again. Biblical Illustration – The Red Sea Judgment: Israel heard the threats of Pharaoh, but God silenced them in one night. “The Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever.” — Exodus 14:13 God’s deliverance is not gradual when the appointed hour strikes. “For the LORD will execute His sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.” — Romans 9:28 5. Heaven’s Glory Will Invade the Seven Mountains Declaration: Heaven’s glory will invade government, education, media, economy, family, religion, and culture in Nigeria. Biblical Illustration – Solomon’s Temple: When God’s glory descended, human effort ceased. “And the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.” — 2 Chronicles 5:14 “The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.” — Habakkuk 2:14 Nigeria shall not be known for chaos but for God’s manifest presence. 6. Reign of Righteousness – The Second Phase of the Prophecy Declaration: The reign of righteousness is at hand. Leadership shall be purified, and governance shall align with divine justice. Biblical Illustration – David’s Throne: God’s promise was not merely a king, but a righteous ruler. “He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.” — 2 Samuel 23:3 “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” — Proverbs 14:34 7. A New Constitution – A Rebuilt Nation Declaration: A new system shall emerge—crafted by god-fearing patriots, honest statesmen, and lovers of truth. Biblical Illustration – Nehemiah Rebuilding Jerusalem: The walls were rebuilt not by angels, but by aligned citizens with a burden for their nation. “And the people had a mind to work.” — Nehemiah 4:6 “I will restore your judges as at the first, and your counselors as at the beginning.” — Isaiah 1:26 8. Global Awe – God Will Be Glorified Declaration: The nations of the world shall stand in awe at what God will do in Nigeria. “The nations shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth Your glory.” — Psalm 102:15 “This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.” — Psalm 118:23 CLOSING PROPHETIC PRAYER Lord, we decree that Nigeria shall live and not die, She shall not be divided nor disintegrate. We declare that 2026 is the SET TIME, the Acceptable Year of the LORD, the birth hour of a new nation. Let righteousness reign, truth prevail, and Your glory cover this land. May history record that God intervened in Nigeria, and our nation was reborn— In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen. #ksa-2026
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  • The Role of the Church in the Nigerian Renaissance

    By Kingsley Shola Ayinde
    January 20,2026

    Principled Leadership, National Renewal, and the Kingdom Mandate

    Introduction: Nigeria at a Crossroads

    Nigeria stands at a decisive historical moment. Rich in people, resources, and spiritual vitality, yet burdened by systemic corruption, poor governance, and moral fragmentation, the nation’s crisis cannot be solved by political reforms alone. What Nigeria requires is a renaissance—a rebirth of values, leadership, and institutions rooted in enduring principles rather than expediency.

    At the heart of this renaissance lies a critical question:

    What would principled leadership in government look like, and what is the role of the Church—and all of society—in producing it?

    This question is not new. It has occupied philosophers, statesmen, and men of God across centuries. Plato warned that “the price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.” Nigeria’s present condition painfully confirms this truth.

    Principled Leadership: Statesmen, Not Pretenders

    Edmund Burke captured the essence of principled leadership when he distinguished between the statesman and the pretender. The pretender governs by convenience and self-interest; the statesman governs by enduring principles and responsibility to future generations.

    This distinction is vital for Nigeria. Our political crisis is not merely about bad systems but about unprincipled leaders operating within an unformed moral culture. Self-interest, ethnic loyalty, religious manipulation, and short-term gain have replaced justice, foresight, and service.

    Yet Scripture defines principled leadership with clarity:

    “The one who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God.” (2 Samuel 23:3)

    Such leadership requires more than technical competence—it requires character shaped by reverence for God and submission to truth higher than personal ambition.

    Government as God’s Idea

    Government is not a human accident; it is a divine institution designed to serve God’s purpose for human flourishing. Scripture teaches that government exists:

    “…so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” (1 Timothy 2:1–2)

    This is the quality of life God intends for every man, woman, and child. When this vision collapses, society suffers collectively. Nigeria’s insecurity, poverty amid abundance, and institutional decay testify to a failure of government to steward its God-given mandate.

    Abraham Lincoln captured this reality when he described himself as “a humble instrument in the hands of our Heavenly Father.” True leadership recognizes that authority is delegated, not owned.

    The Problem: Sinners Governing Sinners

    Democracy depends on human beings—flawed, fallen, and tempted. Michael Novak rightly observed that republics must be designed for sinners, not saints, hence the need for checks and balances.

    Nigeria’s dilemma is therefore twofold:
    1. A weak moral culture producing an unwise electorate.
    2. Leaders unequipped to govern with justice and restraint.

    No system—democratic or otherwise—can compensate for a society that has lost its moral compass.

    The Seven Spheres of Society: A Covenant Framework

    God designed society to function through interconnected covenant institutions, often described as the Seven Mountains or Spheres:
    • Family
    • Church (Religious Institution)
    • Education
    • Government
    • Media
    • Arts & Entertainment
    • Business

    Each sphere has a distinct purpose, but none functions in isolation. When one collapses, others are weakened. A nation is healthy only when all seven operate according to God’s design.

    Christ’s declaration, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me,” means no sphere—government included—is exempt from His Lordship. Isaiah 33:22 reveals God as Judge (Judiciary), Lawgiver (Legislative), and King (Executive)—the very architecture of governance.

    The Foundational Role of Family and Church

    A wise and discerning electorate is not produced at polling units; it is formed in families and churches.
    • Family is the primary incubator of character, values, discipline, and responsibility.
    • The Church is the pillar and foundation of truth (1 Timothy 3:15), tasked with shaping conscience, worldview, and moral courage.

    However, the Church in Nigeria entered history under colonial compromise—emphasizing salvation and submission while neglecting authority, justice, and societal transformation. The result has been a spiritually active but institutionally passive Church.

    The Gospel of the Kingdom is not escapist theology. It is a transformative mandate.

    From Protest to Proposition

    For Nigeria to experience renaissance, Christian engagement must mature:
    • From prayer alone to principled participation
    • From moral lamentation to institutional responsibility
    • From protest to proposition

    The Church must train believers not only to go to heaven, but to govern well on earth.

    Mentoring Leaders: Shepherding Power

    Scripture shows that righteous governance often depended on godly mentors:
    • Uzziah prospered because Zechariah taught him the fear of God (2 Chronicles 26:4–5).
    • Joash ruled rightly because Jehoiada instructed him (2 Kings 12:2).

    Between king and priest, ruler and mentor, both were essential.

    The Church’s responsibility is therefore threefold:
    1. Form values within society.
    2. Train servant-leaders for public office.
    3. Shepherd governing officials, speaking truth without fear or compromise.

    This is not political capture; it is spiritual accountability.

    The Church Militant, Not Passive

    Jesus described the Kingdom as advancing forcefully (Matthew 11:12). The New Testament speaks repeatedly of power, conquest, and victory—not withdrawal.

    “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

    The power of God is not given for personal prosperity alone, but for national transformation.

    Conclusion: Instruments in the Hands of God

    Nigeria’s renaissance will not come merely through constitutional amendments or electoral reforms. It will come when men and women across Family, Church, Education, Government, Media, Arts, and Business see themselves as:
    • Instruments in the hands of God
    • Servants of the people
    • Shepherds of societal trust
    • Stewards of divine authority

    Plato lacked what we possess today:
    the indwelling Holy Spirit and the full counsel of Scripture.

    If the Church awakens to its mandate, Nigeria can yet become a nation where justice flows, dignity is restored, and God’s glory is reflected in public life.

    The Nigerian Renaissance is possible—but it begins with us.
    #ksa-2026
    The Role of the Church in the Nigerian Renaissance By Kingsley Shola Ayinde January 20,2026 Principled Leadership, National Renewal, and the Kingdom Mandate Introduction: Nigeria at a Crossroads Nigeria stands at a decisive historical moment. Rich in people, resources, and spiritual vitality, yet burdened by systemic corruption, poor governance, and moral fragmentation, the nation’s crisis cannot be solved by political reforms alone. What Nigeria requires is a renaissance—a rebirth of values, leadership, and institutions rooted in enduring principles rather than expediency. At the heart of this renaissance lies a critical question: What would principled leadership in government look like, and what is the role of the Church—and all of society—in producing it? This question is not new. It has occupied philosophers, statesmen, and men of God across centuries. Plato warned that “the price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.” Nigeria’s present condition painfully confirms this truth. Principled Leadership: Statesmen, Not Pretenders Edmund Burke captured the essence of principled leadership when he distinguished between the statesman and the pretender. The pretender governs by convenience and self-interest; the statesman governs by enduring principles and responsibility to future generations. This distinction is vital for Nigeria. Our political crisis is not merely about bad systems but about unprincipled leaders operating within an unformed moral culture. Self-interest, ethnic loyalty, religious manipulation, and short-term gain have replaced justice, foresight, and service. Yet Scripture defines principled leadership with clarity: “The one who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God.” (2 Samuel 23:3) Such leadership requires more than technical competence—it requires character shaped by reverence for God and submission to truth higher than personal ambition. Government as God’s Idea Government is not a human accident; it is a divine institution designed to serve God’s purpose for human flourishing. Scripture teaches that government exists: “…so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” (1 Timothy 2:1–2) This is the quality of life God intends for every man, woman, and child. When this vision collapses, society suffers collectively. Nigeria’s insecurity, poverty amid abundance, and institutional decay testify to a failure of government to steward its God-given mandate. Abraham Lincoln captured this reality when he described himself as “a humble instrument in the hands of our Heavenly Father.” True leadership recognizes that authority is delegated, not owned. The Problem: Sinners Governing Sinners Democracy depends on human beings—flawed, fallen, and tempted. Michael Novak rightly observed that republics must be designed for sinners, not saints, hence the need for checks and balances. Nigeria’s dilemma is therefore twofold: 1. A weak moral culture producing an unwise electorate. 2. Leaders unequipped to govern with justice and restraint. No system—democratic or otherwise—can compensate for a society that has lost its moral compass. The Seven Spheres of Society: A Covenant Framework God designed society to function through interconnected covenant institutions, often described as the Seven Mountains or Spheres: • Family • Church (Religious Institution) • Education • Government • Media • Arts & Entertainment • Business Each sphere has a distinct purpose, but none functions in isolation. When one collapses, others are weakened. A nation is healthy only when all seven operate according to God’s design. Christ’s declaration, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me,” means no sphere—government included—is exempt from His Lordship. Isaiah 33:22 reveals God as Judge (Judiciary), Lawgiver (Legislative), and King (Executive)—the very architecture of governance. The Foundational Role of Family and Church A wise and discerning electorate is not produced at polling units; it is formed in families and churches. • Family is the primary incubator of character, values, discipline, and responsibility. • The Church is the pillar and foundation of truth (1 Timothy 3:15), tasked with shaping conscience, worldview, and moral courage. However, the Church in Nigeria entered history under colonial compromise—emphasizing salvation and submission while neglecting authority, justice, and societal transformation. The result has been a spiritually active but institutionally passive Church. The Gospel of the Kingdom is not escapist theology. It is a transformative mandate. From Protest to Proposition For Nigeria to experience renaissance, Christian engagement must mature: • From prayer alone to principled participation • From moral lamentation to institutional responsibility • From protest to proposition The Church must train believers not only to go to heaven, but to govern well on earth. Mentoring Leaders: Shepherding Power Scripture shows that righteous governance often depended on godly mentors: • Uzziah prospered because Zechariah taught him the fear of God (2 Chronicles 26:4–5). • Joash ruled rightly because Jehoiada instructed him (2 Kings 12:2). Between king and priest, ruler and mentor, both were essential. The Church’s responsibility is therefore threefold: 1. Form values within society. 2. Train servant-leaders for public office. 3. Shepherd governing officials, speaking truth without fear or compromise. This is not political capture; it is spiritual accountability. The Church Militant, Not Passive Jesus described the Kingdom as advancing forcefully (Matthew 11:12). The New Testament speaks repeatedly of power, conquest, and victory—not withdrawal. “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) The power of God is not given for personal prosperity alone, but for national transformation. Conclusion: Instruments in the Hands of God Nigeria’s renaissance will not come merely through constitutional amendments or electoral reforms. It will come when men and women across Family, Church, Education, Government, Media, Arts, and Business see themselves as: • Instruments in the hands of God • Servants of the people • Shepherds of societal trust • Stewards of divine authority Plato lacked what we possess today: the indwelling Holy Spirit and the full counsel of Scripture. If the Church awakens to its mandate, Nigeria can yet become a nation where justice flows, dignity is restored, and God’s glory is reflected in public life. The Nigerian Renaissance is possible—but it begins with us. #ksa-2026
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  • SERMON TITLE:
    From Church Members to Kingdom Ambassadors

    Text Focus: Matthew 6:10; Matthew 5:1–12; 2 Corinthians 5:17–20; Philippians 3:20

    TWO WAYS OF LIVING AS A BELIEVER

    Beloved, it is possible to be sincerely Christian and yet live far below the call of the Kingdom.

    Many people believe in Jesus, attend church, sing worship songs, and hold correct doctrines—yet their daily decisions, values, and ambitions are still shaped more by the world than by Heaven.

    Jesus did not come merely to start a religion called Christianity.
    He came to restore God’s Kingdom on earth.

    “From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”
    — Matthew 4:17

    Christianity begins with faith in Christ.
    The Kingdom lifestyle begins when that faith takes over every area of your life and your worldview.

    I. THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE: A GOOD BEGINNING, BUT NOT THE DESTINATION

    The Christian lifestyle often focuses on belief and belonging:
    • Being saved
    • Going to church
    • Praying
    • Studying the Bible
    • Living morally

    These are essential foundations. But they can stop short of transformation- which is Becoming like Christ.

    “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!”
    — James 2:19

    Believing in Jesus and behaving like Christians can guarantee you social security status and titles as a worker, a minister, a Pastor, Reverend, Bishop etc in the Church, but not citizenship of His Kingdom. Your belief must lead you into righteous behavior that transmute you into a higher form of life beyond the clouds, which is what guarantees your citizenship of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 7:21-23).

    Belief alone does not equal Kingdom living and citizenship

    Citizenship vs Residence

    You can live in a country without being a citizen of its government.
    Many believers are merely members of a church or congregation, and even function in their local assembly but do not function in the Kingdom.

    Jesus never said, “Go and make church members.”
    He said:

    “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”
    — Matthew 28:19

    A disciple is not just a believer. A disciple is a trained and equipped soldier of Christ who is representing His Kingdom at home, in the marketplace, in the community etc.

    II. THE KINGDOM LIFESTYLE: HEAVEN’S GOVERNMENT EXPRESSED ON EARTH

    The Kingdom lifestyle begins with identity.

    “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
    — Philippians 3:20

    You are not first a Nigerian -(Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa), American, or African.
    You are first a citizen of Heaven.

    1. Kingdom Citizenship Shapes Perspective

    A Christian may ask, “Is this allowed?”
    A Kingdom citizen asks, “Does this reflect my King and His Kingdom?”

    “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
    — Romans 12:2

    III. KINGDOM VALUES ARE UPSIDE-DOWN VALUES

    Jesus introduced a system that contradicts worldly logic.

    “Blessed are the poor in spirit…
    Blessed are the meek…
    Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…”
    — Matthew 5:3–6

    In the world:
    • Power is dominance
    • Success is accumulation
    • Greatness is being served

    In the Kingdom:
    • Power is humility
    • Success is obedience
    • Greatness is service

    “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.”
    — Mark 10:43

    The Towel and the Throne

    On the night before the cross, Jesus wrapped a towel around Himself and washed His disciples’ feet.

    “I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”
    — John 13:15

    The Kingdom advances not by crowns first—but by towels.

    IV. FROM RELIGIOUS ROUTINE TO KINGDOM MANIFESTATION

    Religion mindset asks: “What do I do on Sunday?”
    The Kingdom mindset asks: “How does Heaven invade Monday?”

    Jesus taught us to pray:

    “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
    — Matthew 6:10

    Kingdom lifestyle means:
    • Kingdom principles in business
    • Kingdom ethics in politics
    • Kingdom mercy in conflict
    • Kingdom generosity with money
    • Kingdom love in family, among brethren and in your community("Charity begins at home, but should not end there").

    “For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.”
    — 1 Corinthians 4:20

    Light in the Marketplace

    Light is useless if hidden inside the church building.

    “You are the light of the world…(not light on Sunday alone)let your light so shine before men(not before your fellow believers only).”
    — Matthew 5:14–16

    The Kingdom is not announced—it is demonstrated.

    V. KINGDOM LIVING REQUIRES DAILY HEAVENLY DIRECTION

    A Christian may rely on last Sunday’s sermon.
    A Kingdom citizen seeks daily instructions from the King.

    “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”
    — Matthew 4:4

    Jesus Himself said:

    “The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do.”
    — John 5:19

    Kingdom life is responsive, not mechanical.

    VI. AMBASSADORS, NOT SPECTATORS

    “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us.”
    — 2 Corinthians 5:20

    An ambassador:
    • Does not represent himself
    • Does not promote personal interests
    • Does not adopt the culture of the host nation, but rather enforce a counterculture policy that promotes the will of God on earth as it is in heaven.

    Embassy Mentality

    An embassy stands on foreign soil but operates under another government’s authority-heavenly authority!

    You may live on earth, but you operate under Heaven’s constitution—the Word of God.

    VII. THE RADICAL SHIFT: FROM BELIEVING TO REPRESENTING

    Christianity says:
    “I’m saved; heaven is my destination.”

    Kingdom living says:
    “I’m sent to Colonize the earth; heaven is my Home Country.”(John 3:31; Ephesians 2:6).

    There is a challenge here, if you have not been able to control or subdued your own flesh; lust of the flesh, lust of the eye and the pride of life, you are still battling with this area of life. How can you then successfully take charge of the smallest and first institution on earth, which is your own immediate family?


    “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
    — John 20:21

    This is why Jesus warned:

    “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom… but he who does the will of My Father.”
    — Matthew 7:21

    A CALL TO KINGDOM CONSCIOUSNESS

    The world does not need more religious Christians.
    It needs Kingdom ambassadors.

    People who:
    • Carry Heaven’s culture
    • Enforce God’s justice
    • Reflect Christ’s humility
    • Serve with love
    • Live under God’s rule daily

    “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
    — Matthew 6:33

    Church membership is good, getting engaged in church activities is fantastic.
    Personal salvation is essential.

    But the ultimate call is this:

    From believers to ambassadors.
    From church attendance to Kingdom advancement.
    From religion to reign.

    PRAYER:
    “Lord Jesus, we receive not only Your salvation, but Your government. Teach us to live as citizens of Heaven and ambassadors of Your Kingdom on earth, until Your will is done everywhere, starting with me as an individual and demonstrated in every institutions on earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.”

    Pastor Kingsley S. Ayinde
    January 7, 2026
    SERMON TITLE: From Church Members to Kingdom Ambassadors Text Focus: Matthew 6:10; Matthew 5:1–12; 2 Corinthians 5:17–20; Philippians 3:20 TWO WAYS OF LIVING AS A BELIEVER Beloved, it is possible to be sincerely Christian and yet live far below the call of the Kingdom. Many people believe in Jesus, attend church, sing worship songs, and hold correct doctrines—yet their daily decisions, values, and ambitions are still shaped more by the world than by Heaven. Jesus did not come merely to start a religion called Christianity. He came to restore God’s Kingdom on earth. “From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” — Matthew 4:17 Christianity begins with faith in Christ. The Kingdom lifestyle begins when that faith takes over every area of your life and your worldview. I. THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE: A GOOD BEGINNING, BUT NOT THE DESTINATION The Christian lifestyle often focuses on belief and belonging: • Being saved • Going to church • Praying • Studying the Bible • Living morally These are essential foundations. But they can stop short of transformation- which is Becoming like Christ. “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!” — James 2:19 Believing in Jesus and behaving like Christians can guarantee you social security status and titles as a worker, a minister, a Pastor, Reverend, Bishop etc in the Church, but not citizenship of His Kingdom. Your belief must lead you into righteous behavior that transmute you into a higher form of life beyond the clouds, which is what guarantees your citizenship of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 7:21-23). Belief alone does not equal Kingdom living and citizenship Citizenship vs Residence You can live in a country without being a citizen of its government. Many believers are merely members of a church or congregation, and even function in their local assembly but do not function in the Kingdom. Jesus never said, “Go and make church members.” He said: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19 A disciple is not just a believer. A disciple is a trained and equipped soldier of Christ who is representing His Kingdom at home, in the marketplace, in the community etc. II. THE KINGDOM LIFESTYLE: HEAVEN’S GOVERNMENT EXPRESSED ON EARTH The Kingdom lifestyle begins with identity. “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” — Philippians 3:20 You are not first a Nigerian -(Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa), American, or African. You are first a citizen of Heaven. 1. Kingdom Citizenship Shapes Perspective A Christian may ask, “Is this allowed?” A Kingdom citizen asks, “Does this reflect my King and His Kingdom?” “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 III. KINGDOM VALUES ARE UPSIDE-DOWN VALUES Jesus introduced a system that contradicts worldly logic. “Blessed are the poor in spirit… Blessed are the meek… Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…” — Matthew 5:3–6 In the world: • Power is dominance • Success is accumulation • Greatness is being served In the Kingdom: • Power is humility • Success is obedience • Greatness is service “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” — Mark 10:43 The Towel and the Throne On the night before the cross, Jesus wrapped a towel around Himself and washed His disciples’ feet. “I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” — John 13:15 The Kingdom advances not by crowns first—but by towels. IV. FROM RELIGIOUS ROUTINE TO KINGDOM MANIFESTATION Religion mindset asks: “What do I do on Sunday?” The Kingdom mindset asks: “How does Heaven invade Monday?” Jesus taught us to pray: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:10 Kingdom lifestyle means: • Kingdom principles in business • Kingdom ethics in politics • Kingdom mercy in conflict • Kingdom generosity with money • Kingdom love in family, among brethren and in your community("Charity begins at home, but should not end there"). “For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.” — 1 Corinthians 4:20 Light in the Marketplace Light is useless if hidden inside the church building. “You are the light of the world…(not light on Sunday alone)let your light so shine before men(not before your fellow believers only).” — Matthew 5:14–16 The Kingdom is not announced—it is demonstrated. V. KINGDOM LIVING REQUIRES DAILY HEAVENLY DIRECTION A Christian may rely on last Sunday’s sermon. A Kingdom citizen seeks daily instructions from the King. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4 Jesus Himself said: “The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do.” — John 5:19 Kingdom life is responsive, not mechanical. VI. AMBASSADORS, NOT SPECTATORS “Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us.” — 2 Corinthians 5:20 An ambassador: • Does not represent himself • Does not promote personal interests • Does not adopt the culture of the host nation, but rather enforce a counterculture policy that promotes the will of God on earth as it is in heaven. Embassy Mentality An embassy stands on foreign soil but operates under another government’s authority-heavenly authority! You may live on earth, but you operate under Heaven’s constitution—the Word of God. VII. THE RADICAL SHIFT: FROM BELIEVING TO REPRESENTING Christianity says: “I’m saved; heaven is my destination.” Kingdom living says: “I’m sent to Colonize the earth; heaven is my Home Country.”(John 3:31; Ephesians 2:6). There is a challenge here, if you have not been able to control or subdued your own flesh; lust of the flesh, lust of the eye and the pride of life, you are still battling with this area of life. How can you then successfully take charge of the smallest and first institution on earth, which is your own immediate family? “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” — John 20:21 This is why Jesus warned: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom… but he who does the will of My Father.” — Matthew 7:21 A CALL TO KINGDOM CONSCIOUSNESS The world does not need more religious Christians. It needs Kingdom ambassadors. People who: • Carry Heaven’s culture • Enforce God’s justice • Reflect Christ’s humility • Serve with love • Live under God’s rule daily “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33 Church membership is good, getting engaged in church activities is fantastic. Personal salvation is essential. But the ultimate call is this: From believers to ambassadors. From church attendance to Kingdom advancement. From religion to reign. PRAYER: “Lord Jesus, we receive not only Your salvation, but Your government. Teach us to live as citizens of Heaven and ambassadors of Your Kingdom on earth, until Your will is done everywhere, starting with me as an individual and demonstrated in every institutions on earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.” Pastor Kingsley S. Ayinde January 7, 2026
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  • A CHRISTIAN REJOINDER: RESTRUCTURING, JUSTICE, AND THE MIND OF GOD FOR NATIONS

    Kayode Akano’s essay, “The Inevitability of Restructuring,” is a sobering reminder that nations, like individuals, can deceive themselves for a season—but never forever. From a Christian perspective, however, the argument for restructuring must be grounded not only in history and elite consensus, but in God’s eternal principles of justice, stewardship, truth, and peace. Scripture is clear: when structures are unjust, God Himself calls for their reform—or allows their collapse.

    1. God Is Not Anti-Unity; He Is Anti-Oppression

    Christian faith does not worship unity at all costs. The Bible teaches that unity without justice is rebellion disguised as peace.

    “Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees.” (Isaiah 10:1)

    The USSR, Yugoslavia, and other empires collapsed not merely because of structural complexity, but because power was centralized without righteousness. In Scripture, God warned Israel that excessive centralization would lead to exploitation (1 Samuel 8:10–18). When Nigeria insists on a unitary structure that breeds poverty, insecurity, and exclusion, it is not unity—it is institutionalized injustice.

    2. God Himself Restructured Nations When They Refused to Repent

    The Bible is replete with examples where God allowed political “restructuring” when nations hardened their hearts:
    • Tower of Babel: God decentralized human power to prevent collective self-destruction (Genesis 11:6–9).
    • Israel and Judah: A united kingdom split when injustice and idolatry prevailed (1 Kings 12).
    • Roman Empire: Fragmented under the weight of corruption and moral decay.

    Thus, restructuring is not rebellion against God; rather, resisting necessary reform is often rebellion against God’s warnings.

    3. Leadership Failure Is Real particularly in Nigeria —but Structure Can Cripple Even the Best Leaders

    The Christian worldview affirms moral leadership, but it also recognizes the power of systems.

    “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3)

    Nigeria’s tragedy is that good intentions are trapped inside bad structures. No leader—however righteous—can sustainably transform a nation where:
    • Resources are centralized but responsibilities are decentralized.
    • States are emasculated but blamed for insecurity within their borders.
    • Productivity is discouraged while rent-seeking is rewarded.

    To continue insisting that leadership alone will save Nigeria is to ignore both history and Scripture.

    4. Elite Consensus Without Moral Vision Is Dangerous

    Akano is right: no nation transforms without elite consensus. But Christians must add a critical caveat—elite consensus without moral accountability produces tyranny, not transformation.

    The Jewish elite who envisioned Israel were bound by covenant consciousness. India’s elites invested in education. Singapore’s leaders were disciplined by law and values. In contrast, Nigeria’s elites have often reached consensus only on self-preservation, not national redemption.

    “The leaders judge for a bribe, the priests teach for a price… yet they lean on the Lord and say, ‘Is not the Lord among us?’” (Micah 3:11)

    Christianity calls not just for elite agreement, but repentant leadership anchored in service, justice, and truth.

    5. Poverty Amid Abundance Is a Moral Indictment

    From a Christian lens, Nigeria’s statistics are not merely policy failures; they are moral scandals.

    “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” (Psalm 24:1)

    Oil wealth with mass poverty, gas riches with darkness, idle refineries with paid workers—these are signs of stewardship failure. Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) warns that wasted resources invite judgment. A structure that rewards waste and punishes productivity cannot claim divine approval.

    6. Fear of the Unknown Is Not a Christian Argument

    Opposition to restructuring is often driven by fear. Yet Scripture repeatedly condemns fear as a poor guide for national destiny.

    “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

    Clinging to a dysfunctional system because of uncertainty is not faith—it is faithlessness. Biblical faith confronts hard truths and chooses obedience over comfort.

    7. Peaceful Restructuring Is a Christian Imperative

    The Christian position is neither violent disintegration nor blind preservation. It is truthful dialogue, justice-driven reform, and peaceful transition.

    “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)

    Nigeria must learn from Yugoslavia and the USSR—not to fear restructuring, but to embrace it early, consensually, and peacefully, before frustration hardens into conflict.

    RESTRUCTURING IS NOT THE GOAL—RIGHTEOUSNESS IS

    From a Christian perspective, restructuring is not an end in itself. It is a means to restore justice, dignity, and opportunity to God’s people.

    “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34)

    Nigeria’s current structure is not exalting the nation; it is exhausting it. To refuse restructuring in the face of overwhelming evidence is to tempt history, mock reason, and ignore God’s moral warnings.

    Indeed, an idea whose time has come cannot be stopped. But Christians must insist that when restructuring comes, it must be guided by truth, justice, repentance, and peace—not revenge, fear, or elite conspiracy.

    Let us get serious—not just politically, but spiritually.
    A CHRISTIAN REJOINDER: RESTRUCTURING, JUSTICE, AND THE MIND OF GOD FOR NATIONS Kayode Akano’s essay, “The Inevitability of Restructuring,” is a sobering reminder that nations, like individuals, can deceive themselves for a season—but never forever. From a Christian perspective, however, the argument for restructuring must be grounded not only in history and elite consensus, but in God’s eternal principles of justice, stewardship, truth, and peace. Scripture is clear: when structures are unjust, God Himself calls for their reform—or allows their collapse. 1. God Is Not Anti-Unity; He Is Anti-Oppression Christian faith does not worship unity at all costs. The Bible teaches that unity without justice is rebellion disguised as peace. “Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees.” (Isaiah 10:1) The USSR, Yugoslavia, and other empires collapsed not merely because of structural complexity, but because power was centralized without righteousness. In Scripture, God warned Israel that excessive centralization would lead to exploitation (1 Samuel 8:10–18). When Nigeria insists on a unitary structure that breeds poverty, insecurity, and exclusion, it is not unity—it is institutionalized injustice. 2. God Himself Restructured Nations When They Refused to Repent The Bible is replete with examples where God allowed political “restructuring” when nations hardened their hearts: • Tower of Babel: God decentralized human power to prevent collective self-destruction (Genesis 11:6–9). • Israel and Judah: A united kingdom split when injustice and idolatry prevailed (1 Kings 12). • Roman Empire: Fragmented under the weight of corruption and moral decay. Thus, restructuring is not rebellion against God; rather, resisting necessary reform is often rebellion against God’s warnings. 3. Leadership Failure Is Real particularly in Nigeria —but Structure Can Cripple Even the Best Leaders The Christian worldview affirms moral leadership, but it also recognizes the power of systems. “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3) Nigeria’s tragedy is that good intentions are trapped inside bad structures. No leader—however righteous—can sustainably transform a nation where: • Resources are centralized but responsibilities are decentralized. • States are emasculated but blamed for insecurity within their borders. • Productivity is discouraged while rent-seeking is rewarded. To continue insisting that leadership alone will save Nigeria is to ignore both history and Scripture. 4. Elite Consensus Without Moral Vision Is Dangerous Akano is right: no nation transforms without elite consensus. But Christians must add a critical caveat—elite consensus without moral accountability produces tyranny, not transformation. The Jewish elite who envisioned Israel were bound by covenant consciousness. India’s elites invested in education. Singapore’s leaders were disciplined by law and values. In contrast, Nigeria’s elites have often reached consensus only on self-preservation, not national redemption. “The leaders judge for a bribe, the priests teach for a price… yet they lean on the Lord and say, ‘Is not the Lord among us?’” (Micah 3:11) Christianity calls not just for elite agreement, but repentant leadership anchored in service, justice, and truth. 5. Poverty Amid Abundance Is a Moral Indictment From a Christian lens, Nigeria’s statistics are not merely policy failures; they are moral scandals. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” (Psalm 24:1) Oil wealth with mass poverty, gas riches with darkness, idle refineries with paid workers—these are signs of stewardship failure. Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) warns that wasted resources invite judgment. A structure that rewards waste and punishes productivity cannot claim divine approval. 6. Fear of the Unknown Is Not a Christian Argument Opposition to restructuring is often driven by fear. Yet Scripture repeatedly condemns fear as a poor guide for national destiny. “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Clinging to a dysfunctional system because of uncertainty is not faith—it is faithlessness. Biblical faith confronts hard truths and chooses obedience over comfort. 7. Peaceful Restructuring Is a Christian Imperative The Christian position is neither violent disintegration nor blind preservation. It is truthful dialogue, justice-driven reform, and peaceful transition. “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) Nigeria must learn from Yugoslavia and the USSR—not to fear restructuring, but to embrace it early, consensually, and peacefully, before frustration hardens into conflict. RESTRUCTURING IS NOT THE GOAL—RIGHTEOUSNESS IS From a Christian perspective, restructuring is not an end in itself. It is a means to restore justice, dignity, and opportunity to God’s people. “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34) Nigeria’s current structure is not exalting the nation; it is exhausting it. To refuse restructuring in the face of overwhelming evidence is to tempt history, mock reason, and ignore God’s moral warnings. Indeed, an idea whose time has come cannot be stopped. But Christians must insist that when restructuring comes, it must be guided by truth, justice, repentance, and peace—not revenge, fear, or elite conspiracy. Let us get serious—not just politically, but spiritually.
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  • A CHRISTIAN CASE FOR REJECTING THE 1999 CONSTITUTION AND CONVENING A PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONFERENCE

    Christian faith does not worship unity at all costs. The Bible teaches that unity without justice is rebellion disguised as peace. Any political order that enforces togetherness while institutionalizing injustice stands under divine judgment, not divine endorsement.

    “Woe to those who make unjust laws,
    to those who issue oppressive decrees.” (Isaiah 10:1)

    This prophetic warning speaks directly to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. That document was not the product of the people’s will, nor was it born out of a covenantal consensus among Nigeria’s nations and ethnic nationalities. It was imposed by a departing military regime, crafted in secrecy, and handed down as a fait accompli. In biblical terms, it is an unjust decree—a legal framework that centralizes power, suppresses self-determination, and perpetuates inequality under the false banner of national unity.

    Unity Enforced by Decree Is Not Biblical Unity

    Biblical unity is covenantal, voluntary, and just. It is never imposed by force or fear.

    “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3)

    The 1999 Constitution did not emerge from agreement; it emerged from coercion. It treats Nigeria’s diverse peoples not as covenant partners, but as administrative subjects of a centralized power structure that rewards domination and punishes initiative. This is why insecurity, poverty, and ethnic distrust continue to deepen despite decades of “constitutional rule.”

    A Structure That Protects Injustice Cannot Claim Moral Legitimacy

    The present constitutional order has:
    • Enabled systemic land grabs and demographic engineering through weak federal protections
    • Normalized security asymmetry, where some violent actors are appeased while others are crushed
    • Concentrated resources at the center while producing mass poverty at the margins

    Scripture is unequivocal:

    “You have wearied the Lord with your words… by saying, ‘All who do evil are good in the eyes of the Lord.’” (Malachi 2:17)

    A constitution that excuses injustice in the name of unity invites divine displeasure. No amount of patriotic rhetoric can sanctify an unjust foundation.

    The Moral Necessity of a People’s National Conference

    In the Bible, whenever a covenant was broken or corrupted, God’s people gathered to renew the foundations.
    • Joshua gathered Israel at Shechem to renew the covenant (Joshua 24)
    • Nehemiah convened the people to rebuild Jerusalem’s broken walls and laws (Nehemiah 8–9)

    Nigeria is at such a moment. What is required is not cosmetic amendment, but foundational renewal—a People’s National Conference where all ethnic nationalities, faith communities, civil society, women, youth, and the diaspora freely negotiate the terms of their coexistence.

    Such a conference is not rebellion; it is repentance.
    It is not disintegration; it is restoration.
    It is not a threat to unity; it is the only path to just and sustainable unity.

    Peace Without Justice Is Only a Pause Before Crisis

    Those who insist on preserving the 1999 Constitution in the name of “stability” misunderstand both history and Scripture.

    “They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious.
    ‘Peace, peace,’ they say, when there is no peace.” (Jeremiah 6:14)

    Nigeria’s wound is structural. Until it is treated, no election, no leader, and no slogan can heal the nation.

    Conclusion: Rejecting Unjust Decrees Is a Christian Duty

    To reject an unjust constitution is not to reject Nigeria; it is to love Nigeria enough to tell the truth.

    “Learn to do right; seek justice.
    Defend the oppressed.” (Isaiah 1:17)

    The time has come for Nigerian Christians—and all people of conscience—to say clearly: a nation cannot be built on unjust laws and survive. The 1999 Constitution has served its season; it has failed its test.

    The path forward is peaceful, lawful, and moral:
    A People’s National Conference that births a truly national, just, and covenant-based constitution.

    Only then can Nigeria fulfill her God-given destiny—not as a forced union, but as a righteous nation.

    Kingsley S. Ayinde
    January 3, 2026
    A CHRISTIAN CASE FOR REJECTING THE 1999 CONSTITUTION AND CONVENING A PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONFERENCE Christian faith does not worship unity at all costs. The Bible teaches that unity without justice is rebellion disguised as peace. Any political order that enforces togetherness while institutionalizing injustice stands under divine judgment, not divine endorsement. “Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees.” (Isaiah 10:1) This prophetic warning speaks directly to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. That document was not the product of the people’s will, nor was it born out of a covenantal consensus among Nigeria’s nations and ethnic nationalities. It was imposed by a departing military regime, crafted in secrecy, and handed down as a fait accompli. In biblical terms, it is an unjust decree—a legal framework that centralizes power, suppresses self-determination, and perpetuates inequality under the false banner of national unity. Unity Enforced by Decree Is Not Biblical Unity Biblical unity is covenantal, voluntary, and just. It is never imposed by force or fear. “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3) The 1999 Constitution did not emerge from agreement; it emerged from coercion. It treats Nigeria’s diverse peoples not as covenant partners, but as administrative subjects of a centralized power structure that rewards domination and punishes initiative. This is why insecurity, poverty, and ethnic distrust continue to deepen despite decades of “constitutional rule.” A Structure That Protects Injustice Cannot Claim Moral Legitimacy The present constitutional order has: • Enabled systemic land grabs and demographic engineering through weak federal protections • Normalized security asymmetry, where some violent actors are appeased while others are crushed • Concentrated resources at the center while producing mass poverty at the margins Scripture is unequivocal: “You have wearied the Lord with your words… by saying, ‘All who do evil are good in the eyes of the Lord.’” (Malachi 2:17) A constitution that excuses injustice in the name of unity invites divine displeasure. No amount of patriotic rhetoric can sanctify an unjust foundation. The Moral Necessity of a People’s National Conference In the Bible, whenever a covenant was broken or corrupted, God’s people gathered to renew the foundations. • Joshua gathered Israel at Shechem to renew the covenant (Joshua 24) • Nehemiah convened the people to rebuild Jerusalem’s broken walls and laws (Nehemiah 8–9) Nigeria is at such a moment. What is required is not cosmetic amendment, but foundational renewal—a People’s National Conference where all ethnic nationalities, faith communities, civil society, women, youth, and the diaspora freely negotiate the terms of their coexistence. Such a conference is not rebellion; it is repentance. It is not disintegration; it is restoration. It is not a threat to unity; it is the only path to just and sustainable unity. Peace Without Justice Is Only a Pause Before Crisis Those who insist on preserving the 1999 Constitution in the name of “stability” misunderstand both history and Scripture. “They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. ‘Peace, peace,’ they say, when there is no peace.” (Jeremiah 6:14) Nigeria’s wound is structural. Until it is treated, no election, no leader, and no slogan can heal the nation. Conclusion: Rejecting Unjust Decrees Is a Christian Duty To reject an unjust constitution is not to reject Nigeria; it is to love Nigeria enough to tell the truth. “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.” (Isaiah 1:17) The time has come for Nigerian Christians—and all people of conscience—to say clearly: a nation cannot be built on unjust laws and survive. The 1999 Constitution has served its season; it has failed its test. The path forward is peaceful, lawful, and moral: A People’s National Conference that births a truly national, just, and covenant-based constitution. Only then can Nigeria fulfill her God-given destiny—not as a forced union, but as a righteous nation. Kingsley S. Ayinde January 3, 2026
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  • TINUBU’S GAMBIT TO TURN NIGERIA INTO A THEATRE OF RELIGIOUS WAR

    Basil Okoh

    Bola Tinubu is diving head first into the deep ends of international sectarian politics without the knowledge of the stench and intrigue in the pool.

    He is inviting Turkey, an old player in religious politics to join the murky waters of stopping terrorism in Nigeria, when Turkey itself is often accused of financing terror across the world including Nigeria. Turkey will waste no time to come to Nigeria and save the Muslim faith and the faithful. That’s Turkey’s sworn duty to Islam.

    The state of Israel has also invited itself to save Nigerian Christians from Muslim genocidal attacks. Israel has suffered most in world history from genocide. The word “genocide” rankles among Jews.

    Radical Islam is secretly supported worldwide by Turkey, defender of the Muslim faith, which is the ostensible reason Tinubu and the Fulani are inviting Turkey to come and save radical Muslims in Nigeria from American Tomahawk missiles.

    So a grand fight of the religions is been set up in Nigeria by President Bola Tinubu, ably supported and goaded on by the Nigerian Fulani oligarchy.

    Now here’s where the trouble has deep roots: For over a thousand years, the Ottoman empire, now renamed Turkey, has provided protection for Muslims across the world and helped defeat their enemies, no matter how dastardly the crimes muslims commit.

    Islam does not need provocation to kill you. The fact alone that you’re not Muslim is good enough reason to kill you. So for Turkey, the fact that a radical Muslim kills you is not a bad thing.

    The Ottomans were the warriors who finally overran Constantinople in its dying days and forcefully converted the Eastern Roman empire to Islam. It destroyed and renamed all the great temples and churches of the Roman empire and finally renamed Constantinople itself to Istanbul, which it still bears to this day.

    Istanbul today is the Constantinople of old, the Roman capital that converted to Catholicism and led to the vast acceptance and expansion of Christianity.

    Since 1453AD, the Ottoman empire led by Mehmed 11 conquered Constantinople from the Byzantines, the Ottomans have through wars and conquests, expanded the frontiers of Islam, mostly at the expense of Christian dominion. The Ottomans devastated the Byzantine, Central Asia, Southern Europe, including Southern Spain and Portugal, all of North Africa from Egypt to Morocco and forcefully converted from Christianity to Islam. The Ottoman empire now renamed Turkey, are Central to the expansion of Islam across the world. Turkey today still bears the name: “Defender of the faithful” among Muslims.

    Without any knowledge or sense of history or perhaps out of his own mischief, Bola Tinubu, President of a multi-religious Nigeria, has turned to Turkey to call in military support for the mediation of what he calls a religious conflict in northern Nigeria. Turkey does not mediate in religious conflicts, Turkey fights for Muslims and for the advancement of Islam.

    In the frenzy of the American bombardments of terrorist enclaves in Sokoto area of Nigeria, Tinubu is undergoing a devastating meltdown, revealing his lack of willpower, utter cluelessness and weakness both as a man and as leader of a country.

    The picture of Bola Tinubi that is emerging is ugly, so ugly indeed that we believe Tinubu has not only lost control of the instruments of governance, but that he is ready to hand Nigeria to ancient enemies Turkey and Israel and submerge it in a sectarian conflict that will reduce the country to a burning vast land.

    Bola Tinubu has proceeded secretly to Istanbul after a secret meeting with the Sultan of Sokoto and what can be called the war council of the Fulani oligarchy. By his actions so far, Tinubu is pitching tent with the Fulani against the rest of Nigeria and the American establishment. He is abandoning the ship of state and inviting Turkey, an established sectarian interloper that can only take sides with Muslims in the face of a challenge in Nigeria.

    The person without good breeding and education is finally showing in Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Two days ago Tinubu himself announced to the leaders of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) that his government has extended formal invitation to the government of Turkey to intervene in the fight against insecurity in the country. The Christian leaders, obviously without knowledge and no sense of history themselves, nodded in approval and ended the meeting carrying gifts home. What they did not know is that Bola Tinubu, out of his own mischief, is moving to take Nigeria into a vortex of religious conflict that see no end in a thousand years. Palestine, check. Lebanon, check. Syria, check. Iraq, check. Iran, check. Afghanistan, check. Somalia, check.

    Turkey is the acknowledged leader of the Muslim world and is seen to this day as the defender of the Islamic faith. Saudi Arabia and Mecca may be the birthplace of Islam but the historical expansion and propagation of the faith across much of Arabia, Palestine, Southern Europe and Central Asia was led and achieved by the Ottoman empire, now renamed Turkey. Turkey, has maintained political leadership of the Muslim world and has remained the defender of the Muslim faith for hundreds of years.

    Today, the military and political power of Turkey is only checkmated by the state of Israel but Turkey remains a formidable force as member of NATO. The projection of its power northwards to Russia through the Strait of Bosphorus and the black sea and through countries of the Muslim Central Asia (Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and up to Indonesia). Turkey however has never been able to challenge or outflank Israel because of the overwhelming power of Israel itself and the guaranteed protection of America.

    Bola Tinubu’s invitation of Turkey to intervene in the resolution of Islamic terrorism in Nigeria is dubious and lacks sincerely. Turkey has long been suspected of providing armament, intelligence and logistics to the Nigerian terror groups with international affiliations like ISIS and al-Qaeda. So Bola Tinubu is not fooling anyone by going to Istanbul to seek friends. He is seeking to open up Nigeria to international sectarian conflict. By siding with Fulani who have been hurt by the American bombardment of Fulani Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto, Bola Tinubu has chosen to take side against peace and the people of Nigeria.
    The trenchant Islamist government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey, takes serious steps to ensure that Islam continues to flourish in Turkey and expand across the world. So Turkey can only come to Nigeria to support the forceful conversion of people to Islam. That is the sworn commitment of Turkey for hundreds of years. Turkey has never really been able to untangle itself from international accusations of cavorting with implacable Islamists and Jihadi across the world.

    Now just at the very time Nigeria is contending with different groups of murderous Islamists and when America and Israel have come to help wipe out the insurgency, Bola Tinubu’s government is inviting Turkey into the fray as a counterforce to Israel and America. His invitation is to help defend the Islamic faith against a perceived Christian onslaught in Nigeria, no matter the fact that it enjoys Muslim support. Tinubu and the Fulani are hoping to make Turkey to defend Islam by helping to counter and stop the elimination of terrorists in Nigeria.

    This action is evidence that Tinubu is seeped in deep conceit and is taking terrorism as another side to his politics while working to make Nigeria the cauldron of international conflict of faith between Christianity and Islam. Bola Tinubu in collusion with the Fulani whose hegemony is being threatened by American actions against terror groups, are trying to set up a violent clash between Christianity and Islam in Nigeria. Every other ethnic group, including the Hausa, have welcomed and endorsed the American actions to wipe out Islamic violence in Nigeria.

    The danger of the growing convergence of terrorist organizations in Nigeria has not been of any serious concern to the Tinubu government or the Fulani oligarchy. The Fulani want to continue to use the terrorists to perpetuate fear and further their hegemony in Nigeria while Tinubu wants to use them to foster instability which will be exploited to give him a second tenure.

    Dr. Ahmad Gumi was denied ingress into Saudi Arabia last year for championing terrorism in Nigeria. The very pro-Western Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern States will not be lured to support groups advocating violent Islam when their own tegimes stand at the risk of been overthrown by violent Islam. They rely on America for protection against violent Islam. The Saudi government had previously expressed outrage at the philosophy of Nigeria’s Boko Haram (book is Haram or forbidden) scorching at the statement which ostensibly denies Arab and Muslim contribution to world scholarship.

    The Arabs know that Tinubu and the Fulani want to set up a fight between Christian America and the Muslim world and most would have no part in such a conflict that will be difficult to resolve. Arabs will be morally guilty from the start, backing Muslims who are guilty of committing genocide on Christians without provocation. So the Fulani pursuit of partners and supporters in a war of blame will be a no-win situation. Turkey will be foolish to be goaded into such a conflict as Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has expressed Israeli commitment to do what is necessary to stop Christian genocide in Nigeria.

    All considered, Turkey can never take up a fight against America in Nigeria. They are both members of NATO and Nigeria will be too inconsequential in their power and relationship consideration. So will Turkey not take up a fight against Israel in Nigeria, no matter how clandestine. Turkey watched Gaza razed down and could not do a thing. Nigeria is an outlier compared to Palestine and Turkey is not about to lose its men and equipment challenging Israel in a distant Nigeria.

    So what does Bola Tinubu and the Fulani hope to gain by planting conflict and confusion in Nigeria and inviting international religious war in Nigeria? The naiveté of Tinubu’s government and their low understanding of world politics can be shameful. To think that their low acumen can provoke conflict between America, Israel and Turkey is laughable. Nigeria is of very low strategic interest to these countries and their perception of the integrity and quality of Nigeria’s leaders is low.

    But for the missing rare earth minerals from the northeast and the new interest in uranium mining, Nigeria is of low strategic interest to America, Israel and Turkey. Oil or no oil.

    Basilokoh.
    TINUBU’S GAMBIT TO TURN NIGERIA INTO A THEATRE OF RELIGIOUS WAR Basil Okoh Bola Tinubu is diving head first into the deep ends of international sectarian politics without the knowledge of the stench and intrigue in the pool. He is inviting Turkey, an old player in religious politics to join the murky waters of stopping terrorism in Nigeria, when Turkey itself is often accused of financing terror across the world including Nigeria. Turkey will waste no time to come to Nigeria and save the Muslim faith and the faithful. That’s Turkey’s sworn duty to Islam. The state of Israel has also invited itself to save Nigerian Christians from Muslim genocidal attacks. Israel has suffered most in world history from genocide. The word “genocide” rankles among Jews. Radical Islam is secretly supported worldwide by Turkey, defender of the Muslim faith, which is the ostensible reason Tinubu and the Fulani are inviting Turkey to come and save radical Muslims in Nigeria from American Tomahawk missiles. So a grand fight of the religions is been set up in Nigeria by President Bola Tinubu, ably supported and goaded on by the Nigerian Fulani oligarchy. Now here’s where the trouble has deep roots: For over a thousand years, the Ottoman empire, now renamed Turkey, has provided protection for Muslims across the world and helped defeat their enemies, no matter how dastardly the crimes muslims commit. Islam does not need provocation to kill you. The fact alone that you’re not Muslim is good enough reason to kill you. So for Turkey, the fact that a radical Muslim kills you is not a bad thing. The Ottomans were the warriors who finally overran Constantinople in its dying days and forcefully converted the Eastern Roman empire to Islam. It destroyed and renamed all the great temples and churches of the Roman empire and finally renamed Constantinople itself to Istanbul, which it still bears to this day. Istanbul today is the Constantinople of old, the Roman capital that converted to Catholicism and led to the vast acceptance and expansion of Christianity. Since 1453AD, the Ottoman empire led by Mehmed 11 conquered Constantinople from the Byzantines, the Ottomans have through wars and conquests, expanded the frontiers of Islam, mostly at the expense of Christian dominion. The Ottomans devastated the Byzantine, Central Asia, Southern Europe, including Southern Spain and Portugal, all of North Africa from Egypt to Morocco and forcefully converted from Christianity to Islam. The Ottoman empire now renamed Turkey, are Central to the expansion of Islam across the world. Turkey today still bears the name: “Defender of the faithful” among Muslims. Without any knowledge or sense of history or perhaps out of his own mischief, Bola Tinubu, President of a multi-religious Nigeria, has turned to Turkey to call in military support for the mediation of what he calls a religious conflict in northern Nigeria. Turkey does not mediate in religious conflicts, Turkey fights for Muslims and for the advancement of Islam. In the frenzy of the American bombardments of terrorist enclaves in Sokoto area of Nigeria, Tinubu is undergoing a devastating meltdown, revealing his lack of willpower, utter cluelessness and weakness both as a man and as leader of a country. The picture of Bola Tinubi that is emerging is ugly, so ugly indeed that we believe Tinubu has not only lost control of the instruments of governance, but that he is ready to hand Nigeria to ancient enemies Turkey and Israel and submerge it in a sectarian conflict that will reduce the country to a burning vast land. Bola Tinubu has proceeded secretly to Istanbul after a secret meeting with the Sultan of Sokoto and what can be called the war council of the Fulani oligarchy. By his actions so far, Tinubu is pitching tent with the Fulani against the rest of Nigeria and the American establishment. He is abandoning the ship of state and inviting Turkey, an established sectarian interloper that can only take sides with Muslims in the face of a challenge in Nigeria. The person without good breeding and education is finally showing in Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Two days ago Tinubu himself announced to the leaders of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) that his government has extended formal invitation to the government of Turkey to intervene in the fight against insecurity in the country. The Christian leaders, obviously without knowledge and no sense of history themselves, nodded in approval and ended the meeting carrying gifts home. What they did not know is that Bola Tinubu, out of his own mischief, is moving to take Nigeria into a vortex of religious conflict that see no end in a thousand years. Palestine, check. Lebanon, check. Syria, check. Iraq, check. Iran, check. Afghanistan, check. Somalia, check. Turkey is the acknowledged leader of the Muslim world and is seen to this day as the defender of the Islamic faith. Saudi Arabia and Mecca may be the birthplace of Islam but the historical expansion and propagation of the faith across much of Arabia, Palestine, Southern Europe and Central Asia was led and achieved by the Ottoman empire, now renamed Turkey. Turkey, has maintained political leadership of the Muslim world and has remained the defender of the Muslim faith for hundreds of years. Today, the military and political power of Turkey is only checkmated by the state of Israel but Turkey remains a formidable force as member of NATO. The projection of its power northwards to Russia through the Strait of Bosphorus and the black sea and through countries of the Muslim Central Asia (Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and up to Indonesia). Turkey however has never been able to challenge or outflank Israel because of the overwhelming power of Israel itself and the guaranteed protection of America. Bola Tinubu’s invitation of Turkey to intervene in the resolution of Islamic terrorism in Nigeria is dubious and lacks sincerely. Turkey has long been suspected of providing armament, intelligence and logistics to the Nigerian terror groups with international affiliations like ISIS and al-Qaeda. So Bola Tinubu is not fooling anyone by going to Istanbul to seek friends. He is seeking to open up Nigeria to international sectarian conflict. By siding with Fulani who have been hurt by the American bombardment of Fulani Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto, Bola Tinubu has chosen to take side against peace and the people of Nigeria. The trenchant Islamist government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey, takes serious steps to ensure that Islam continues to flourish in Turkey and expand across the world. So Turkey can only come to Nigeria to support the forceful conversion of people to Islam. That is the sworn commitment of Turkey for hundreds of years. Turkey has never really been able to untangle itself from international accusations of cavorting with implacable Islamists and Jihadi across the world. Now just at the very time Nigeria is contending with different groups of murderous Islamists and when America and Israel have come to help wipe out the insurgency, Bola Tinubu’s government is inviting Turkey into the fray as a counterforce to Israel and America. His invitation is to help defend the Islamic faith against a perceived Christian onslaught in Nigeria, no matter the fact that it enjoys Muslim support. Tinubu and the Fulani are hoping to make Turkey to defend Islam by helping to counter and stop the elimination of terrorists in Nigeria. This action is evidence that Tinubu is seeped in deep conceit and is taking terrorism as another side to his politics while working to make Nigeria the cauldron of international conflict of faith between Christianity and Islam. Bola Tinubu in collusion with the Fulani whose hegemony is being threatened by American actions against terror groups, are trying to set up a violent clash between Christianity and Islam in Nigeria. Every other ethnic group, including the Hausa, have welcomed and endorsed the American actions to wipe out Islamic violence in Nigeria. The danger of the growing convergence of terrorist organizations in Nigeria has not been of any serious concern to the Tinubu government or the Fulani oligarchy. The Fulani want to continue to use the terrorists to perpetuate fear and further their hegemony in Nigeria while Tinubu wants to use them to foster instability which will be exploited to give him a second tenure. Dr. Ahmad Gumi was denied ingress into Saudi Arabia last year for championing terrorism in Nigeria. The very pro-Western Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern States will not be lured to support groups advocating violent Islam when their own tegimes stand at the risk of been overthrown by violent Islam. They rely on America for protection against violent Islam. The Saudi government had previously expressed outrage at the philosophy of Nigeria’s Boko Haram (book is Haram or forbidden) scorching at the statement which ostensibly denies Arab and Muslim contribution to world scholarship. The Arabs know that Tinubu and the Fulani want to set up a fight between Christian America and the Muslim world and most would have no part in such a conflict that will be difficult to resolve. Arabs will be morally guilty from the start, backing Muslims who are guilty of committing genocide on Christians without provocation. So the Fulani pursuit of partners and supporters in a war of blame will be a no-win situation. Turkey will be foolish to be goaded into such a conflict as Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has expressed Israeli commitment to do what is necessary to stop Christian genocide in Nigeria. All considered, Turkey can never take up a fight against America in Nigeria. They are both members of NATO and Nigeria will be too inconsequential in their power and relationship consideration. So will Turkey not take up a fight against Israel in Nigeria, no matter how clandestine. Turkey watched Gaza razed down and could not do a thing. Nigeria is an outlier compared to Palestine and Turkey is not about to lose its men and equipment challenging Israel in a distant Nigeria. So what does Bola Tinubu and the Fulani hope to gain by planting conflict and confusion in Nigeria and inviting international religious war in Nigeria? The naiveté of Tinubu’s government and their low understanding of world politics can be shameful. To think that their low acumen can provoke conflict between America, Israel and Turkey is laughable. Nigeria is of very low strategic interest to these countries and their perception of the integrity and quality of Nigeria’s leaders is low. But for the missing rare earth minerals from the northeast and the new interest in uranium mining, Nigeria is of low strategic interest to America, Israel and Turkey. Oil or no oil. Basilokoh.
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  • Christian Elders Urge Tinubu to Jettison 1999 Constitution, Push New Charter Before 2027 – NNUYA https://nnuya.ng/christian-elders-urge-tinubu-to-jettison-1999-constitution-push-new-charter-before-2027/

    The group further urged President Tinubu to convene a national conference of ethnic nationalities to renegotiate Nigeria’s political foundation and produce a new constitution before the 2027 elections.

    The NCEF also made a controversial call for northern states to dismantle Sharia criminal law systems and revert to the Penal Code, arguing that Nigeria’s persistent insecurity and instability stem from what it described as a conflict between democratic governance and Sharia ideology.

    “The root cause of the crisis in Nigeria is the conflict between democracy and Sharia ideologies. The Muslim North should revert to the Penal Code approved by the Sardauna and dismantle Sharia criminal law,” the elders said.

    They maintained that Nigeria is constitutionally a secular state and warned that operating parallel legal systems for the same country had created deep national contradictions.

    The forum accused successive governments of allowing religion to dominate governance, alleging that religious bias had contributed to violence, particularly against Christian communities in parts of northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.

    “As Christian elders, we appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rise above personal ambition and think about the legacy he would leave behind. This is a season that calls for sacrificial leadership,” the group said
    Christian Elders Urge Tinubu to Jettison 1999 Constitution, Push New Charter Before 2027 – NNUYA https://nnuya.ng/christian-elders-urge-tinubu-to-jettison-1999-constitution-push-new-charter-before-2027/ The group further urged President Tinubu to convene a national conference of ethnic nationalities to renegotiate Nigeria’s political foundation and produce a new constitution before the 2027 elections. The NCEF also made a controversial call for northern states to dismantle Sharia criminal law systems and revert to the Penal Code, arguing that Nigeria’s persistent insecurity and instability stem from what it described as a conflict between democratic governance and Sharia ideology. “The root cause of the crisis in Nigeria is the conflict between democracy and Sharia ideologies. The Muslim North should revert to the Penal Code approved by the Sardauna and dismantle Sharia criminal law,” the elders said. They maintained that Nigeria is constitutionally a secular state and warned that operating parallel legal systems for the same country had created deep national contradictions. The forum accused successive governments of allowing religion to dominate governance, alleging that religious bias had contributed to violence, particularly against Christian communities in parts of northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt. “As Christian elders, we appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rise above personal ambition and think about the legacy he would leave behind. This is a season that calls for sacrificial leadership,” the group said
    NNUYA.NG
    Christian Elders Urge Tinubu to Jettison 1999 Constitution, Push New Charter Before 2027
    Elder statesmen under the platform of the National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu...
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  • *NATIONAL CHRISTIAN ELDERS FORUM (NCEF)*

    *MR PRESIDENT, WHAT LEGACY WOULD YOU LEAVE BEHIND?*

    _“A politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation.” ― James Freeman Clarke_

    *HIGHLIGHTS:*
    • The current distress in the country affords President Tinubu opportunities to provide solutions that would be enduring legacies for his administration.
    • The root cause of the crisis in Nigeria is the conflict between Democracy and Sharia ideologies.
    • The Muslim North should revert to the Penal Code approved by the Sardauna for the North and dismantle the Sharia criminal law.
    • The 1999 Constitution lacks legitimacy, and it should be decommissioned immediately.
    • The 2027 election should not take place under the 1999 Constitution but under a new constitution. Nigeria should stop validating an illegitimacy every four years.
    • President Tinubu should initiate the birthing of a new Constitution as one of his legacies to Nigeria. This would put him in the ranks of Robertson Constitution, Mcpherson Constitution, and the Lyttleton Constitution.
    • The Government of President Tinubu should convene a conference of the ethnic nationalities to re-negotiate Nigeria and produce a new Constitution for the country before 2027.

    Mr President,

    The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) brings greetings to Mr President in these trying times while we commiserate with multitudes of Nigerians who have been negatively impacted by the ongoing terrorism in Nigeria. The Forum of Christian Elders condoles families that have suffered the loss of loved ones, and empathises, through the Lay Faithful Trust Foundation, with those in the IDP camps. We pray, and we keep working, that this distress shall pass quickly.

    As Christian elders, we appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on whose shoulders lies the responsibility of steering the ship of the state at this critical period, to consider our counsel in this brief presentation. This season calls for sacrificial leadership that will set aside all personal ambitions and work for the common good of all. It is leaders who make the sacrifices that posterity honours. History etches in gold the names of those who make a difference for good in their generation. At this point, Mr. President should be thinking about the legacy he would leave behind. In other words, what does President Tinubu want to be remembered for?

    The crisis which Nigeria is going through affords Mr. President the opportunity to distinguish himself as a noble statesman. He should be thinking of turning the present distresses in the country into challenges to which he would provide lasting solutions and win the accolades of generations to come. Only such a commitment can bring the current distress in Nigeria to a quick end. Nigeria is calling for leadership that will set aside partisan politicking and focus on bringing a new Nigeria out of the current rubble induced by the unrestrained politics of religion.

    Since 2015, NCEF has been cautioning against the unbridled incursion of religion into the body politics of Nigeria. The eight years of President Buhari witnessed the promotion of sectional religious interest over and above the national interest. That posture does not appear to be declining. It is based on religious discrimination that genocide is still being committed against Christian populations in Nigeria in the North and Middle Belt regions of the country. The violence is spreading all over the country.

    NCEF is aghast that there could be a denial of religiously induced genocide against Christian populations in Nigeria. Since its inception in 2015, NCEF has written over one hundred and twenty-one (121) papers on the incursion of Sharia ideology into governance in Nigeria. The incursion of Sharia ideology into the 1999 Constitution created dual conflicting ideologies for Nigeria. Repeatedly, NCEF cautioned that Nigeria is operating two different ideologies for the same country and two sets of laws for the same people. Nigeria is a secular state, and its national ideology is democracy.

    In 2017, NCEF asked Muslim leaders in Nigeria nine questions when they sought to deny genocide against Christians. To date, no Muslim leader has answered one of those nine questions. It is therefore surprising that the same leaders of Islam can still deny in 2025 that there is genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

    Mr. President, the root of this crisis is the illegitimate and unilateral insertion of Sharia ideology into the 1999 Constitution by a Muslim Military Head of State, who used his position to promote his religion over and above other religions in the country. The starting point in resolving this crisis is as follows:

    1. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) must be decommissioned immediately. It failed the test of a true Constitution for Nigeria because it was neither negotiated by the ethnic nationalities nor passed through any Constituent Assembly. Its claim of “we the people …” is not only false, it is also fraudulent. We cannot build a nation on fraud.
    2. The Sharia ideology must be consigned as “personal” law, and every structure supporting Sharia “criminal law” must be dismantled forthwith.
    3. Mr. President should convene a conference of the ethnic nationalities to re-negotiate Nigeria and come out with a new constitution of the people, by the people, for the people. We suggest that this should be done before the next election in 2027.
    4. It would not be in the interest of Nigeria to conduct another election under a constitution that does not represent the collective agreement of Nigerians. Nigeria should no longer continue to endorse illegality every four years.

    NCEF is aware that the matter of Sharia evokes emotion amongst Muslims of the core North. However, the controversy can easily be resolved if we travel down memory lane to the foundation of Nigeria at Independence. The late Sardauna wanted Sharia, but the request was declined by the Colonial Authority because Sharia failed the “repugnancy test”. We shall quote three legal luminaries on this matter: Mr. Solomon Asemota, SAN; the late Professor Ben Nwabueze; and the late Justice Mohammed Bello.

    Mr. Solomon Asemota, SAN, commented thus:
    “It is also very clear that Sharia cannot be enforced as state law, which was why the Sardauna took the trouble to ensure the passage of the Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure in 1960, which has the following features:
    a. It was applicable to everybody in Northern Nigeria.
    b. It was internationally accepted and above all
    c. It was Quran compliant.
    If the above is the correct state of the two laws, then there is need to return Sharia to the status it was before 1975 – Civil and Personal Law.”

    The late Professor Ben Nwabueze gave his legal opinion as follows:
    “The conclusion is thus inescapable that the prohibition in section 10 of the Constitution stamps with an indelible taint of unconstitutionality, the Sharia criminal law, whether in its original form as contained in the Quran and the Sunnah or in a codified form to be enacted by the National Assembly or a State House of Assembly.”

    The late Justice Mohammed Bello commented thus:
    “Section 38(1) of the Constitution ensures for every person the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, whereas under Sharia, ‘ridda’ (change of religion) is a capital offence. Consequently, the offence of ridda is inconsistent with Section 38(1) and by virtue of Section 1 is unconstitutional.”

    Mr. President, based on the legal opinions of these legal luminaries, there should be no delay in setting in motion the process of giving Nigeria a new constitution. The twelve states in the North that introduced Sharia law should revert to the Penal Code. It was the deviation from the Penal Code that brought Nigeria into this crisis. To fully resolve this crisis, NCEF wishes to outline the following recommendations to Mr. President for his careful consideration:

    a) There should be an immediate decommissioning of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
    b) In the interim, Nigeria should revert to its 1963 Republican Constitution, being the only constitution that was negotiated by the founding fathers of Nigeria. The 1963 Republican Constitution was not abrogated. It was “suspended” by the Military in 1966. Mr. President can lift the suspension and with some minor amendments, resume its operation.
    c) A Conference of ethnic nationalities should be convened to renegotiate Nigeria and produce a new constitution for the country.
    d) A Truth and Reconciliation Commission should be established, for the healing and rebuilding of trust among all the divergent groups in Nigeria.
    e) Professionalism should be restored to the Army through the dismissal of all “repentant terrorists”.
    f) Government should enable the IDPs to return to their ancestral homes.
    g) Maximize the assistance offered by the United States of America to neutralize all terrorists who have been undermining the State and compromising security all over the nation.

    Mr. President, we conclude with the words of James Freeman Clarke, that “a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation.” We appeal to you to seize the rare opportunity of turning the present crisis in Nigeria into legacy projects that will etch your name in gold for generations to come. We pray that you will superintend the emergence of a new constitution that will restore peace, progress, and prosperity to Nigeria. In years to come, History will speak of a Tinubu Constitution, like the Robertson Constitution, the Mcpherson Constitution, and the Lyttleton Constitution. Your current report card, when assessed by Section 14(2)b of the 1999 Constitution, is not encouraging. Security and welfare of the citizens are at the lowest rung of the ladder of the performance index. You should not leave this report card behind. It will haunt you and your descendants for generations to come. We encourage you to rise like a noble statesman and set politicking apart to provide lasting solutions to the problems of Nigeria. That should be your legacy, not the 2027 election. We believe that this should be done before your first term in office is over.

    NCEF wishes to thank all the kind-hearted people, locally and internationally, who have expressed concern and willingness to help Nigeria in this period of distress. We pray that Mr. President will take seriously our counsel, that posterity remembers and honors those who make a difference in their generation.

    God bless Nigeria.

    For, and on behalf of, NCEF,


    Dr Samuel Danjuma Gani, CON
    Chairman

    25th December 2025
    *NATIONAL CHRISTIAN ELDERS FORUM (NCEF)* *MR PRESIDENT, WHAT LEGACY WOULD YOU LEAVE BEHIND?* _“A politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation.” ― James Freeman Clarke_ *HIGHLIGHTS:* • The current distress in the country affords President Tinubu opportunities to provide solutions that would be enduring legacies for his administration. • The root cause of the crisis in Nigeria is the conflict between Democracy and Sharia ideologies. • The Muslim North should revert to the Penal Code approved by the Sardauna for the North and dismantle the Sharia criminal law. • The 1999 Constitution lacks legitimacy, and it should be decommissioned immediately. • The 2027 election should not take place under the 1999 Constitution but under a new constitution. Nigeria should stop validating an illegitimacy every four years. • President Tinubu should initiate the birthing of a new Constitution as one of his legacies to Nigeria. This would put him in the ranks of Robertson Constitution, Mcpherson Constitution, and the Lyttleton Constitution. • The Government of President Tinubu should convene a conference of the ethnic nationalities to re-negotiate Nigeria and produce a new Constitution for the country before 2027. Mr President, The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) brings greetings to Mr President in these trying times while we commiserate with multitudes of Nigerians who have been negatively impacted by the ongoing terrorism in Nigeria. The Forum of Christian Elders condoles families that have suffered the loss of loved ones, and empathises, through the Lay Faithful Trust Foundation, with those in the IDP camps. We pray, and we keep working, that this distress shall pass quickly. As Christian elders, we appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on whose shoulders lies the responsibility of steering the ship of the state at this critical period, to consider our counsel in this brief presentation. This season calls for sacrificial leadership that will set aside all personal ambitions and work for the common good of all. It is leaders who make the sacrifices that posterity honours. History etches in gold the names of those who make a difference for good in their generation. At this point, Mr. President should be thinking about the legacy he would leave behind. In other words, what does President Tinubu want to be remembered for? The crisis which Nigeria is going through affords Mr. President the opportunity to distinguish himself as a noble statesman. He should be thinking of turning the present distresses in the country into challenges to which he would provide lasting solutions and win the accolades of generations to come. Only such a commitment can bring the current distress in Nigeria to a quick end. Nigeria is calling for leadership that will set aside partisan politicking and focus on bringing a new Nigeria out of the current rubble induced by the unrestrained politics of religion. Since 2015, NCEF has been cautioning against the unbridled incursion of religion into the body politics of Nigeria. The eight years of President Buhari witnessed the promotion of sectional religious interest over and above the national interest. That posture does not appear to be declining. It is based on religious discrimination that genocide is still being committed against Christian populations in Nigeria in the North and Middle Belt regions of the country. The violence is spreading all over the country. NCEF is aghast that there could be a denial of religiously induced genocide against Christian populations in Nigeria. Since its inception in 2015, NCEF has written over one hundred and twenty-one (121) papers on the incursion of Sharia ideology into governance in Nigeria. The incursion of Sharia ideology into the 1999 Constitution created dual conflicting ideologies for Nigeria. Repeatedly, NCEF cautioned that Nigeria is operating two different ideologies for the same country and two sets of laws for the same people. Nigeria is a secular state, and its national ideology is democracy. In 2017, NCEF asked Muslim leaders in Nigeria nine questions when they sought to deny genocide against Christians. To date, no Muslim leader has answered one of those nine questions. It is therefore surprising that the same leaders of Islam can still deny in 2025 that there is genocide against Christians in Nigeria. Mr. President, the root of this crisis is the illegitimate and unilateral insertion of Sharia ideology into the 1999 Constitution by a Muslim Military Head of State, who used his position to promote his religion over and above other religions in the country. The starting point in resolving this crisis is as follows: 1. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) must be decommissioned immediately. It failed the test of a true Constitution for Nigeria because it was neither negotiated by the ethnic nationalities nor passed through any Constituent Assembly. Its claim of “we the people …” is not only false, it is also fraudulent. We cannot build a nation on fraud. 2. The Sharia ideology must be consigned as “personal” law, and every structure supporting Sharia “criminal law” must be dismantled forthwith. 3. Mr. President should convene a conference of the ethnic nationalities to re-negotiate Nigeria and come out with a new constitution of the people, by the people, for the people. We suggest that this should be done before the next election in 2027. 4. It would not be in the interest of Nigeria to conduct another election under a constitution that does not represent the collective agreement of Nigerians. Nigeria should no longer continue to endorse illegality every four years. NCEF is aware that the matter of Sharia evokes emotion amongst Muslims of the core North. However, the controversy can easily be resolved if we travel down memory lane to the foundation of Nigeria at Independence. The late Sardauna wanted Sharia, but the request was declined by the Colonial Authority because Sharia failed the “repugnancy test”. We shall quote three legal luminaries on this matter: Mr. Solomon Asemota, SAN; the late Professor Ben Nwabueze; and the late Justice Mohammed Bello. Mr. Solomon Asemota, SAN, commented thus: “It is also very clear that Sharia cannot be enforced as state law, which was why the Sardauna took the trouble to ensure the passage of the Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure in 1960, which has the following features: a. It was applicable to everybody in Northern Nigeria. b. It was internationally accepted and above all c. It was Quran compliant. If the above is the correct state of the two laws, then there is need to return Sharia to the status it was before 1975 – Civil and Personal Law.” The late Professor Ben Nwabueze gave his legal opinion as follows: “The conclusion is thus inescapable that the prohibition in section 10 of the Constitution stamps with an indelible taint of unconstitutionality, the Sharia criminal law, whether in its original form as contained in the Quran and the Sunnah or in a codified form to be enacted by the National Assembly or a State House of Assembly.” The late Justice Mohammed Bello commented thus: “Section 38(1) of the Constitution ensures for every person the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, whereas under Sharia, ‘ridda’ (change of religion) is a capital offence. Consequently, the offence of ridda is inconsistent with Section 38(1) and by virtue of Section 1 is unconstitutional.” Mr. President, based on the legal opinions of these legal luminaries, there should be no delay in setting in motion the process of giving Nigeria a new constitution. The twelve states in the North that introduced Sharia law should revert to the Penal Code. It was the deviation from the Penal Code that brought Nigeria into this crisis. To fully resolve this crisis, NCEF wishes to outline the following recommendations to Mr. President for his careful consideration: a) There should be an immediate decommissioning of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). b) In the interim, Nigeria should revert to its 1963 Republican Constitution, being the only constitution that was negotiated by the founding fathers of Nigeria. The 1963 Republican Constitution was not abrogated. It was “suspended” by the Military in 1966. Mr. President can lift the suspension and with some minor amendments, resume its operation. c) A Conference of ethnic nationalities should be convened to renegotiate Nigeria and produce a new constitution for the country. d) A Truth and Reconciliation Commission should be established, for the healing and rebuilding of trust among all the divergent groups in Nigeria. e) Professionalism should be restored to the Army through the dismissal of all “repentant terrorists”. f) Government should enable the IDPs to return to their ancestral homes. g) Maximize the assistance offered by the United States of America to neutralize all terrorists who have been undermining the State and compromising security all over the nation. Mr. President, we conclude with the words of James Freeman Clarke, that “a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman thinks of the next generation.” We appeal to you to seize the rare opportunity of turning the present crisis in Nigeria into legacy projects that will etch your name in gold for generations to come. We pray that you will superintend the emergence of a new constitution that will restore peace, progress, and prosperity to Nigeria. In years to come, History will speak of a Tinubu Constitution, like the Robertson Constitution, the Mcpherson Constitution, and the Lyttleton Constitution. Your current report card, when assessed by Section 14(2)b of the 1999 Constitution, is not encouraging. Security and welfare of the citizens are at the lowest rung of the ladder of the performance index. You should not leave this report card behind. It will haunt you and your descendants for generations to come. We encourage you to rise like a noble statesman and set politicking apart to provide lasting solutions to the problems of Nigeria. That should be your legacy, not the 2027 election. We believe that this should be done before your first term in office is over. NCEF wishes to thank all the kind-hearted people, locally and internationally, who have expressed concern and willingness to help Nigeria in this period of distress. We pray that Mr. President will take seriously our counsel, that posterity remembers and honors those who make a difference in their generation. God bless Nigeria. For, and on behalf of, NCEF, Dr Samuel Danjuma Gani, CON Chairman 25th December 2025
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  • Date: December 22, 2025

    A Response from the Voice of the Persecuted Christian in Nigeria
    To the Visiting U.S. Congressional Delegation

    Honourable Members of Congress-Rep. Bill Huizenga and included Reps. Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve,


    We welcome you—not as dignitaries, but as witnesses.

    We speak to you not from conference rooms or carefully curated briefings, but from burned villages, mass graves, orphaned children, widowed mothers, and churches that have become crime scenes. We speak as Nigerian Christians who live every day under the shadow of violence, displacement, and selective justice.

    You say you have come to listen. Then please hear us plainly.

    We did not ask for American troops on our soil. What we ask for is truth, moral clarity, and consequences for impunity.

    You say the United States has ruled out “boots on the ground.” Very well. But understand this:
    what is killing us is not the absence of U.S. soldiers—it is the absence of accountability.

    You say the CPC designation is meant to “encourage reform through diplomatic pressure.” Yet from where we stand, that pressure seems to evaporate the moment it meets the comfort of Nigerian political elites. Our attackers still roam free. Our complaints still go unanswered. Our killers are rarely prosecuted. Entire Christian communities in the Middle Belt—Plateau, Benue, Southern Kaduna—are erased, while officials call it “communal clashes.”

    Respectfully, this language is part of the problem.

    You say the violence affects “communities of all faiths.” That is true in theory—but incomplete in practice. What we experience is patterned, persistent, and targeted. Churches are attacked. Christian farmlands are seized. Pastors are abducted. Worshippers are slaughtered. And when we cry out, we are told to be patient, to trust systems that have failed us repeatedly.

    You distinguish between terrorism in the North-East and so-called communal violence elsewhere. On paper, that distinction may comfort policy frameworks. On the ground, it buries bodies. The men who attack us carry weapons of war, shout religious slogans, and act with confidence that no authority will stop them. Whether you label them terrorists, militias, or bandits, the result is the same: Christians are dying, and justice is absent.

    You say “true friends don’t walk away.” We agree.
    But true friends also do not sanitize reality to preserve partnerships.

    If Nigeria’s CPC status is to be reviewed based on “measurable progress,” then please tell us:
    – How many convictions for attacks on Christian communities count as progress?
    – How many displaced Christians returning safely to their lands count as progress?
    – How many dismantled terror networks count as progress?

    Because what we see instead is a government skilled at making promises, forming committees, issuing statements—and doing very little.

    You speak of “shoes on the ground, not boots.” Humanitarian aid is welcome, but aid without justice becomes a revolving door. We do not want to be permanent refugees fed by donations while our ancestral lands are occupied and our killers rewarded with silence.

    We are concerned—deeply—that your visit risks becoming another photo opportunity that allows corrupt officials to say, “America understands us,” while nothing changes for those bleeding in the villages.

    If you truly wish to help, then we ask for this:
    • Name the violence accurately. Stop hiding targeted persecution behind neutral language.
    • Tie diplomatic engagement to consequences. Visa bans, financial sanctions, and aid conditionality against officials who enable or ignore violence.
    • Demand prosecutions, not promises. Justice is the deterrent we lack.
    • Listen beyond government offices. Sit with survivors, widows, pastors, displaced families—without handlers.
    • Do not trade our lives for stability optics. A stability built on mass graves is temporary and dangerous.

    You warn that insecurity in Nigeria has global consequences. You are right. But understand this:
    when Christians are slaughtered with impunity, when the rule of law collapses selectively, extremism does not stay local.

    We are not asking the United States to fight our battles.
    We are asking you not to help our oppressors feel comfortable.

    History will remember whether this moment was one of courageous truth—or convenient diplomacy.

    We are still here. We are still alive. We are still praying.
    But we are running out of time.

    The Persecuted Christian in Nigeria
    Kingsley Shola Ayinde
    On behalf of many whose voices were silenced before you arrived.
    Date: December 22, 2025 A Response from the Voice of the Persecuted Christian in Nigeria To the Visiting U.S. Congressional Delegation Honourable Members of Congress-Rep. Bill Huizenga and included Reps. Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve, We welcome you—not as dignitaries, but as witnesses. We speak to you not from conference rooms or carefully curated briefings, but from burned villages, mass graves, orphaned children, widowed mothers, and churches that have become crime scenes. We speak as Nigerian Christians who live every day under the shadow of violence, displacement, and selective justice. You say you have come to listen. Then please hear us plainly. We did not ask for American troops on our soil. What we ask for is truth, moral clarity, and consequences for impunity. You say the United States has ruled out “boots on the ground.” Very well. But understand this: what is killing us is not the absence of U.S. soldiers—it is the absence of accountability. You say the CPC designation is meant to “encourage reform through diplomatic pressure.” Yet from where we stand, that pressure seems to evaporate the moment it meets the comfort of Nigerian political elites. Our attackers still roam free. Our complaints still go unanswered. Our killers are rarely prosecuted. Entire Christian communities in the Middle Belt—Plateau, Benue, Southern Kaduna—are erased, while officials call it “communal clashes.” Respectfully, this language is part of the problem. You say the violence affects “communities of all faiths.” That is true in theory—but incomplete in practice. What we experience is patterned, persistent, and targeted. Churches are attacked. Christian farmlands are seized. Pastors are abducted. Worshippers are slaughtered. And when we cry out, we are told to be patient, to trust systems that have failed us repeatedly. You distinguish between terrorism in the North-East and so-called communal violence elsewhere. On paper, that distinction may comfort policy frameworks. On the ground, it buries bodies. The men who attack us carry weapons of war, shout religious slogans, and act with confidence that no authority will stop them. Whether you label them terrorists, militias, or bandits, the result is the same: Christians are dying, and justice is absent. You say “true friends don’t walk away.” We agree. But true friends also do not sanitize reality to preserve partnerships. If Nigeria’s CPC status is to be reviewed based on “measurable progress,” then please tell us: – How many convictions for attacks on Christian communities count as progress? – How many displaced Christians returning safely to their lands count as progress? – How many dismantled terror networks count as progress? Because what we see instead is a government skilled at making promises, forming committees, issuing statements—and doing very little. You speak of “shoes on the ground, not boots.” Humanitarian aid is welcome, but aid without justice becomes a revolving door. We do not want to be permanent refugees fed by donations while our ancestral lands are occupied and our killers rewarded with silence. We are concerned—deeply—that your visit risks becoming another photo opportunity that allows corrupt officials to say, “America understands us,” while nothing changes for those bleeding in the villages. If you truly wish to help, then we ask for this: • Name the violence accurately. Stop hiding targeted persecution behind neutral language. • Tie diplomatic engagement to consequences. Visa bans, financial sanctions, and aid conditionality against officials who enable or ignore violence. • Demand prosecutions, not promises. Justice is the deterrent we lack. • Listen beyond government offices. Sit with survivors, widows, pastors, displaced families—without handlers. • Do not trade our lives for stability optics. A stability built on mass graves is temporary and dangerous. You warn that insecurity in Nigeria has global consequences. You are right. But understand this: when Christians are slaughtered with impunity, when the rule of law collapses selectively, extremism does not stay local. We are not asking the United States to fight our battles. We are asking you not to help our oppressors feel comfortable. History will remember whether this moment was one of courageous truth—or convenient diplomacy. We are still here. We are still alive. We are still praying. But we are running out of time. The Persecuted Christian in Nigeria Kingsley Shola Ayinde On behalf of many whose voices were silenced before you arrived.
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